Snapshot Zooming in on the latest news from St John of God SEM Hospitals (Berwick, Frankston, Pinelodge, Langmore)
Thursday 8th October 2020 Current Victorian COVID-19 Status as at Thursday 8th October 2020 Australia-wide 248 active cases | 27,206 total | Victoria-wide 203 active cases | 20,247 total Deaths (Vic) 809 total | People hospitalised (Vic) 17 | People in ICU (Vic) 1
Foundation Day 2020- a day of firsts It was a Foundation Day unlike any other. The first we have celebrated as joint South East Melbourne hospitals and the first we have viewed remotely, online. Traditionally, Foundation Day- an annual celebration recognising the work of the Sisters of St John of God- is celebrated with an inperson ritual and shared lunch. Due to Covid -19 physical distancing requirements, yesterday’s celebrations were unlike any other. The ceremony was held at St John of God Frankston Rehabilitation Hospital and was attended only by those who needed to be there to carry out a functional role or to accept a long service award. Caregivers watched via Webex, some tuning in from home and others gathered in small groups around a screen, observing at a safe distance. Despite this year’s changes, it was still a warm and meaningful reflection. In place of a lunch, caregivers donated personal care items to be donated to Wayss, assisting people in need during these difficult times. (see right) To learn more about the Sisters of St John of God and the caregivers who received their 20 year service awards, please visit Cora and read the launch issue of In The Loop.
Following in the footsteps of our founders on Foundation Day The Sisters of St John of God led the way, all those years ago, by caring for and giving to those in need during times of their own risk and hardship. Our cargivers have answered the call to follow in these footsteps by donating essential items for Wayss. Wayss has a fundamental belief that safe, secure and affordable housing is a human right. They exist to support people who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness, and people who have experienced family violence, to access safe, secure and affordable housing. Never more important than now, when many in our community are out of work and facing financial and social hardship. Thank you to everyone who has donated and made a difference.