MENTAL health services on the Mid-North Coast have received a $620,000 boost from the Commonwealth.
Independent Lyne MP Rob Oakeshott has announced The Benevolent Society will receive $626,365 to expand its Personal Helpers and Mentors (PHaMs) service to the Port Macquarie-Hastings, Greater Taree and Gloucester areas.
“The commitment to mental health services in our region is very welcome, particularly following the State Government’s decision to close two local community mental health services,” Mr Oakeshott said.
“I congratulate The Benevolent Society on its successful funding application as it will make a difference to many local families.”
CEO Anne Hollonds said The Benevolent Society, Australia’s first charity celebrating 200 years in 2013, had a long history of supporting people living with mental illness.
“Personal Helpers and Mentors is all about getting people involved in the community and supporting them to achieve their goals, develop better relationships with family and friends, and manage everyday tasks,” Ms Hollonds said.
“We’ve been running the Personal Helpers and Mentors Program in other areas for more than five years and we know from our research that it really does improve people’s well-being and has a positive impact on social relationships and involvement in community life.
“It’s great that this support will now be available to people living with mental illness on the Mid-North Coast,” Ms Hollonds said.
The Benevolent Society on the Mid-North Coast has offices at Suite 10, 219 Victoria Street, Taree, phone 1300 006 480, and at 3/37 Forth Street, Kempsey, phone 6563 6200.
