In response to a surge in demand for the services of community organisations as a result of COVID-19, the Marshall Liberal Government has committed $20,000 to Volunteering SA&NT to help mobilise volunteers, ensuring essential services can continue to be delivered to our most vulnerable South Australians.
As part of the partnership, Volunteering SA&NT staff will manage volunteer registrations and depending on their skills, match people to organisations needing extra help during the pandemic.
Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink said many of South Australia’s 900,000 volunteers are self-isolating due to COVID-19, but demand and workload had surged for organisations who rely on volunteers.
“Now, more than ever it’s fantastic to see South Australians putting their hands up to volunteer at a time when our community needs help,” said Minister Lensink.
“The Marshall Liberal Government is committed to supporting our community get through this pandemic and this partnership will ensure our volunteer organisations can continue their important work providing essential services to our most vulnerable.
“While some volunteer organisations have suspended volunteering programs as a result of COVID19, many are looking to increase numbers to assist their response to this pandemic and this new partnership will really assist them finding the extra help.
“My thanks go to those South Australians putting their hands up to assist where they can, and I encourage all who are able to consider volunteering to help our community in its time of need.
“Volunteer roles that are needed include transportation, data entry, administration, delivering supplies, conducting wellbeing checks or providing call centre support and over the coming weeks and months, more positions will become available as demand for services increases.”
Volunteering SA&NT Chief Executive Officer Evelyn O’Loughlin said her team was working with community organisations to determine their needs for additional volunteers.
“These organisations not only need volunteers in the short term, but we expect to see an increase in the need for volunteers after we return to pre-pandemic conditions,” said Ms O’Loughlin.
To register to volunteer during COVID-19, visit https://www.volunteeringsa-nt.org.au/, or download the free WeDo App.
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