Homes for Heroes – Helping Vets in Need
“In 2009, the Australian Department of Veterans Affairs released a report that identified that on any given night across Australia, over 3000 veterans were homeless due to their service to our nation”.
RSL Lifecare Homes for Heroes.
Penrith RSL Club, in partnership with the Penrith RSL sub-Branch, is huge supporters of the ‘Homes for Heroes’ project. The club and sub-Branch have committed a joint contribution of $60,000 to the program of over a three year period. The program helps returned veterans with PTSD find housing, treatment, and support.
In addition to permanent residents, Homes for Heroes periodically provides accommodation to families and veterans on a short stay basis. Currently based in Narrabeen, there are no other dedicated homeless accommodation centres for contemporary veterans in Australia, however, there will be some new facilities and services opening at Governor Phillip Manor in Penrith soon.
The program is a comprehensive rehabilitation service. In addition to the support, residents receive, they are required to give back to the program by doing volunteer work, mentoring others, or engaging in education, training, and rehabilitation opportunities.
Chief Executive Officer of RSL LifeCare, Mr. Ron Thompson stated, “The program is intended to provide the young men and woman returning from conflict the stability, security, support, and opportunity to get back on their feet”.
Penrith RSL Club has made further contributions to the program through the annual Penrith RSL Paceway Fundraiser and participation in the ‘Honour our Heroes Walk’.
Penrith RSL Club CEO, Mr. Neel Chand stated, “We would like to thank all involved in the Homes for Heroes Fundraiser at the Penrith Paceway on the 19th May. Tickets sales, raffle sales, the auction, donations from Anzac Day as well as our ‘Barefoot’ wine promotion all contributed to the massive donation of $13, 221.80.”
“We would also like to say a big thank you to our staff who volunteered to take part in the ‘Honour our Heroes’ relay walk on Sunday 1st May. We raised $2,200.00 for the appeal and it was fantastic to see our staff getting involved in our community efforts.”
Pictured (LEFT): Janet, Kristy, Executive Manager- Club Operations Brian Bellomo, Julie-Anne and Penrith RSL Club Chairman Frank Portelli.
Pictured (MIDDLE): Mr Neville Barnier, Homes for Heroes Representative Tony Vandenhurk and Penrith RSL Club CEO Neel Chand.
Pictured (RIGHT): Mr. Neville Barnier, Penrith RSL Club CEO Neel Chand, Julie-Anne, Stephanie, Jamie and Executive Manager- Club Operations Brian Bellomo.
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