Salvation Army Thank You Dinner

This was once again a most enjoyable and very informative occasion.

Over one hundred people attended with several Rotarians from other clubs including; Kew on Yarra & Glenferrie. 

Norman Gale, our Salvation Army main contact was the MC and the Guest Speaker was Major Brendan Nottle. Entertainment was provided by the Crop Band and we had a very delicious 3 course dinner.

There were many groups attending who one way or other work with and or for the Salvation Army in Camberwell  providing such programs as; Doorways to Service, Project 614, Choir of Hope, Cooking classes, Exercise activities, Asburton Outreach, Migrant & the Multicultural Program, to name just a few.

The many supporters & partners include; Camcare, Rotary Clubs, Hawthorn Secondary College, Bunnings, Bakers Delight, Camberwell Doorways, Emergency Relief, Financial Counselling, and the Hot Meals program, which we at Hawthorn support as part of the Second Bite, the food collection from the Camberwell Fresh Food Market on Saturday afternoons. This Hot Meals group including Jane Rose provide on; Mondays, Fridays and Sundays  an amazing 3 course meal for about 40 people for just 2 dollars!

Pamela Hanney informed us about the Doorways Case Management program which cares and supports those in need and that Case Worker Kaye Jones is now on site at Bowen Street. 

When people come to the Salvation Army they may say they need food but it is often other more significant issues causing distress, conflict, anxiety and isolation, so the focus is on gradually developing a one to one relationship which offers care and advisory support. Brendon Nottle  told us about issues relating to rooming houses and the amazing financial support provided by Collingwood and other footy clubs which is making a significant difference to the moral and self respect for those needing this accommodation. Brendan then acknowledged the significant hands on work volunteers are providing across so many programs including in the city at night time where sadly so many young people are crashing out and making themselves so very vulnerable. 

In conclusion, the talks were very revealing, sobering and uplifting thanks to the good work of so many volunteers and their programs. Obviously there are many opportunity for Rotarians to become involved.

Ian Macfarlane.

{Ed :- RCH's involvement each Saturday at the Camberwell markets procuring food for "Second Bite" is a small input}