LIFELINE North Coast, based in Coffs Harbour, welcomed Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh to their offices last week, after successfully obtaining a NSW Government’s Social Sector Support Fund grant.

Mr Singh said the funding boost will ease financial pressure on the organisation and help them recover from impacts of the COVID-19 lockdown.

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“The social services sector has worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to support people doing it tough,” Mr Singh said.

“The funding will support not-for-profits who have seen a decline in their revenue and can be used to assist with brokering services and support for clients.”

Angela Martin, Communications and Community Engagement Manager, Lifeline North Coast (NSW), told News Of The Area, “It costs $39 to answer a crisis call – someone suffering emotional distress or thoughts of suicide, and since Covid our phone calls have doubled, while our volunteer numbers are drastically down.

“All proceeds go back into keeping our Crisis Phone Line operating.

“Every dollar spent in our retail shops is what keeps us operational, every donation /volunteer helps save a life.

“When locals support us (Lifeline North Coast) – they are supporting their local community and ensuring every dollar raised stays here not directed to head office admin fees,” Angela said.

Lifeline has a range of ways people can donate and raise funds, one of which is hosting your own event.

“If you need assistance, we have a dedicated team to help you create a successful fundraising event and we offer support and services to assist you with your goals.”

You can also shop at Lifeline’s op-shops.

“Now with five Lifeline shop retail outlets across Grafton, Coffs Harbour, Toormina, and Nambucca Valley, they are a great way to shop sustainably.

“We pride ourselves on curating a wide range of high-quality second-hand and new fashion and homewares and presenting fresh creative retail spaces.

“Every purchase from our stores helps to fund Lifeline’s crisis support line (13 11 14) and our Community Support programs.”

Volunteering with Lifeline can also be a very rewarding experience.

“At Lifeline North Coast, we are lucky to be supported by some incredible volunteers who make our services possible.

“That said, there’s always room for new volunteers, so if you’d like to get involved, we’d love to hear from you.

“As well as helping us care for people in our community, you’ll meet new people and even learn new skills.

“Not to mention have fun along the way.

“Our policy is to match people to suitable roles rather than the other way around.

“Luckily our organisation is so diverse, there are jobs to suit almost everyone.

Volunteer roles include Telephone Crisis Supporter (training provided), Marketing and Events and Retail.

“And if you have an eye for fashion labels why not become one of our sought-after curators?

“We are also after electricians who can help us test and tag our electrical goods for sale.”

Volunteers with experience in warehouse and logistics roles are also sought after.

“With all the clothes, furniture and books we process, transport and warehousing help is much appreciated,” said Angela.

Are you wanting to make a difference in your local community?

Find out more by visiting Lifeline North Coast’s new website at https://lifelinenorthcoast.org.au/ and sign up to the newsletter for updates on what’s happening.

Or contact Angela Martin, Communications Manager, Lifeline North Coast on 6651 4093 or email: angela.martin@lifeline.org.au.

By Andrea FERRARI