It’s with mixed emotions we accept a wonderful donation from Neil Gemmill on behalf of the former Bendigo Willing Older Workers group.
The Bendigo branch of Willing Older Workers group was launched in 2015 to support older people out of work with a strong focus on good mental health.
Sadly, WOW Bendigo has come to an end with their donation of Coles vouchers to Bendigo Community Health Services representing the ‘closure’ of the group's finances.
It’s the request of Mr Gemmill on behalf of the former WOW group that we use the vouchers to support people attending our mental health and counselling services who are struggling to make ends meet.
Mr Gemmill said it was said the group tried hard to get something off the ground in Bendigo to support older people out of work but couldn’t get the support to keep going.
“I still continue on talking with people in the community but I’m not equipped to handle some of their issues and I normally refer them on to you guys,” Mr Gemmill said.
“I feel a lot of mature age employment people who lose their jobs fall through the cracks.
“If you suddenly find yourself unemployed at 45 or 50 and nearly all set up you don’t get any help from the government. You don’t want that help from the government but you have to go on a benefit. If you don’t get a benefit you don’t exist which is what I found and I was horrified. If you don’t get a benefit then you don’t get to go to the job providers – it’s a double edged sword.
“I’m just concerned about the middle-aged men and women in society and all the mental health issues that go on in society.”
Thank you for all your work Neil and rest assured we will ensure the vouchers you have donated go to helping people in need just as you wish.
If you are struggling with daily life issues please talk to someone - it's an important first step.