General News
9 December, 2023
Locals reach out as pressures rise
With the cost of living soaring and Christmas fast approaching, many people in the Wimmera are turning to their local community groups on Facebook to reach out for assistance and support.
Posts have become frequent in groups and on pages as people look for services to help them financially and mentally.
A community survey found financial pressures are the number one stress point heading into the end of the year.
Horsham Neighbourhood House manager Charlie Helyar said the data findings are justified, and he too has observed a noticeable increase in concern.
"People are stressed and worried about the future and the uncertainty of what the future may hold for them," Mr Helyar said.
"There is also a concern about the ‘what ifs’ in their life."
Mr Helyar said the pressure to spend at Christmas - not least on presents for family and loved ones - was compounded by the ongoing cost of living crisis.
There are numerous services Neighbourhood House offers to support residents, both financially and health-wise.
Mr Helyar said Chatty Cafe, held weekly, gives people community support and offers an inviting and warm setting for people to connect.
They also offer the Money Minded course, which helps people get in charge of their finances.
"Access to supports, programs and activities are offered at the house," Mr Helyar said.
"The house is an inclusive and safe environment for all Horsham residents."
Mr Helyar said the ferstive season could be positive without adding to financial hardship.
"Christmas should be about family, friends and loved ones, not gifts or expectations," he said.
"It is a time to get together and celebrate the year just past."
Mr Helyar recommended several services people can contact besides Neighbourhood House in Horsham.
These include Centrelink and Good Shepard Foundation for financial support, Christian Emergency Food Centre for assistance with food, Headspace for Youth Mental Health support, Orange Door for Domestic Violence and Family support, Grampians Community Health and Uniting Care for mental health/living support, Salvation Army for assistance with food and individual support and St Vinnies for individual support.
In Dimboola, a community pantry is in operation at 77 Lloyd Street, from Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday and Sunday mornings.
In Warracknabeal, a community pantry is located in the main street in the community garden, or those in need can call or text Angie on 0438 981 460 for a parcel.
Beyond Blue last December saw a 41 per cent increase on the monthly average in contacts to the national support service,
"We expect the same, if not more, this year,” clinical spokesperson Grant Blashki said.