🌟 Red Cross – Making a Difference in Our Community 🌟

I recently had the opportunity to meet with the Bec Cunningham, Senior Manager (Community Programs & Business Operations) of Red Cross, after hearing concerns from constituents about a possible closure. I am happy to share that Red Cross is NOT closing – in fact, they’re doing incredible work right here in our region!

💙 What They Do
• Transport Service: Volunteer drivers help eligible people aged 65+ (50+ for ATSI) with rides to non-urgent medical appointments, for social visits, and more. Trips can even span long distances such as Adelaide.

• Trauma Teddies: Handmade by local volunteers and distributed to Emergency Services such as SAPOL, A&E, and domestic violence services—a little cuddly comfort when someone needs it most.

• Telecross: A daily welfare phone check-in, starting your day with an act of human connection.

• Aged Care Visiting Scheme: Social visits offering companionship and reassurance to isolated community members.

• Emergency Services: Preparing, responding and supporting people to recover from Emergencies, including the popular Pillowcase Program in schools.

🆘 How You Can Help
Their biggest challenge right now? Finding volunteers. Whether you can drive, make phone calls, or knit bears, even a small-time commitment makes a big impact.

📞 Get Involved Locally
Red Cross relies on community word-of-mouth to spread their message.

• To learn more or volunteer: call 1800 833 489 or visit https://www.redcross.org.au/places/offices/port-pirie/ or https://www.redcross.org.au/

• To book the transport service in Port Pirie and surrounds: visit https://www.redcross.org.au/transport/ or call 1300 557 549.

• To register for https://www.redcross.org.au/telecross/

📣 Help Spread the Word

Please share this post, talk to your friends and neighbours—every volunteer and every share helps keep these vital community services going.

PIC: Geoff with Bec and the lovely trauma bears—handmade tokens of comfort supporting vulnerable people every day.