A range of beds, cupboards, wardrobes and household items previously owned by West Australians living at WA’s largest single-site aged care and retirement living provider – Bentley-based SwanCare – is helping to support disadvantaged people in Perth.
The household goods, which range from sofas to potato peelers, are being donated to not-for-profit organisation Starting Over Support (SOS), which provides furniture and household items to people who have escaped crisis situations and are setting up a new home and life in and around Perth.
The service, which is run solely by volunteers, is the only free, comprehensive service of its kind locally.
SwanCare Chief Executive Officer Graham Francis says that SwanCare and residents within its community were very supportive of the work being undertaken by SOS, to support those who are struggling with limited financial resources.
“When we heard about the great work being carried out in the community by Starting Over Support, we were really keen to assist, as many of our residents often have household items they no longer need if, for instance, they are transitioning to residential aged care with us,” he says.
“There are also times when residents unfortunately pass away, and their family are keen for their furniture to help others, particularly those experiencing disadvantage, or a difficult time as a result of homelessness or domestic violence.”
Manager of Starting Over Support, Debbie Mason, says the organisation was extremely grateful to SwanCare and its residents for its ongoing support.
“We’re genuinely grateful for the SwanCare community’s continued support of Starting Over Support and their donations of furniture and household items,” she says.
“As we’re an independent, not-for-profit charity that is solely run by volunteers, we can only assist others thanks to community support.
“We help people who have been referred by crisis refuges, government and non-government agencies, or those who have recently left the security of a shelter or refuge, and so we’re always keen to hear from West Australians who are keen to donate furniture, white goods or even kitchen utensils.”
More information about Starting Over Support can be found at www.startingover.org.au or by calling Debbie Mason 0403 367 767.
For more information about SwanCare visit https://swancare.com.au/