With the aid of a grant from the MacKillop Foundation, we were able to respond to a very needy group who are under the care of the The Mobile Assertive Treatment (MAT) team, based in Camperdown.
These people have complex mental health and general health issues often made worse with addiction problems. They live in small bedsits, have little to no contact with their family and find it incredibly difficult to live on the small amount of money left over once their pension has paid their rent. They are often short of food and rarely can afford items such as toiletries. The MAT team provides comprehensive medical and supportive care to help them live reasonably comfortable lives.
For Christmas 2014, we prepared gift bags containing a complete range of toiletries, two pairs of socks and two packets of lollies plus food hampers with general and festive food, and additional personalised gifts for 42 men and 25 women.
Parcels for the Crisis Team
This year, thanks partly to the MacKillop Foundation support, we were also able to respond to a request to provide the same toiletry packs, food and gift hampers for 25 men and 20 women who are clients of the Marrickville Crisis Team. These people are at a stage where they are experiencing an acute phase of their mental illness but fortunately, will return to stable health.
Members of both teams told us of the surprise and joy these hampers brought to their clients. One recipient sent us a note saying:
Dear Hamper Lady
Just before Christmas, my case worker brought me one of your hampers. It was a fantastic surprise. I particularly liked the socks, coffee and puddings. It was such a lovely gesture. You brightened my Christmas. And thank you for the necklace.
The whole pack was amazing. So thank you for your kindness. It has not gone unnoticed!
Thanks again.