St John’s Care Programs

Compassion   Advocacy   Respect   Encouragement

In 2010 St John’s Care distributed $250,000 of groceries and fresh food to people

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE – we provide emergency assistance in the form of food (including fresh fruit and vegetables), clothing, prescription filling, bus fares, blankets and a limited amount of financial help to meet the basic requirements of people in need.  Information and referral to a variety of services is also provided, including help to find the right agency or department to deal with a problem.  All people are treated in a non-judgmental manner with dignity and respect.  Open 9.30 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. Monday to Friday.

COMMUNITY LUNCHES – a free lunch is held on the first Friday of the month.  Besides being served a nutritious, home cooked, two or three course meal, it is an opportunity to strengthen a sense of connectedness and community among the people who attend.  We normally serve 75 to 85 meals per month.

MARRIAGE EDUCATION – a one day workshop for couples who are about to marry.  The workshop assists couples to build strong relationships and effective communication.

GRIEF AND LOSS SUPPORT PROGRAM – clients are offered six sessions of support at no cost.  The model differs from counselling in that we offer people an opportunity to talk to a trained volunteer who can listen and help address the effects of grief.  If the support worker feels that a more therapeutic approach is needed the client can be referred to a counsellor for further assistance.

COUNSELLING REFERRALS – for people working through personal crises and difficulties.  Counselling with professional counsellors can be arranged.  Subsidies are available on application for those who are non-waged to help with the cost.

BREAKFAST CLUB – breakfast is served by volunteers at Ainslie Primary School on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

PATCH-A-PUZZLE – volunteers repair and restore wooden puzzles for early childhood centres.

CHRISTMAS PRESENT ROOM – the fortnight before Christmas Day a Christmas Present Room is established.  Presents are generously donated which enables parents to select a gift for their child or children.  It is basically a toy shop without a cash register.  Hampers are also provided.

CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH – an open house is held each Christmas Day in the St John’s Hall.  In 2010, 370 people enjoyed this wonderful event for the whole community.

TELSTRA – we distribute Telstra vouchers for those having difficulty with their telephone accounts.

Christmas Day Community Lunch in the St John’s Hall