Flourish Magazine - Winter/Spring 2022

FLOURISH ISSUE NO. 14

WINTER/SPRING 2022

7 BUILDING THE SKILLS TO MOVE FORWARD & THRIVE IN THIS ISSUE:

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All the colour from the 10th Reconciliation in the West event

Aged Care site repurposed to accommodate NDIS participants

Generous donors dig deep for our annual Winter Appeal

New program provides women economic empowerment

Young people paint centenarians in incredible portrait project

“ On behalf of our entire organisation, I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who has donated towards our Winter Appeal this year.”

CEO JENNY HALL, 2022

WELCOME

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elcome to the latest edition of Flourish, which brings together highlights from the past six months at UnitingSA. It’s been an incredibly busy time for our housing, community services and aged care teams as we work to achieve positive outcomes for those we support.

of our 24-Hour House, which provides a place for young people experiencing homelessness to live. The work of the team, and the resilience and achievements of the young people, are nothing short of inspiring. Read all about it on pages 10 and 11.

We are also thrilled to highlight some of our work and outcomes in regional areas of South Australia. On page 7 we speak with Yang, who recently took part in our Moving Forward program in Whyalla, learning employability skills along with confidence-building and goal setting.

On page 14 we meet Stavros, who has been able to access vital support in the Riverland through our EnCOMPASS program, which helps to connect people from diverse backgrounds with aged care services.

As an organisation, we are especially proud to have made real progress in our reconciliation journey in recent months.

On page 4, you can read about our Reconciliation Action Plan, which was endorsed by Reconciliation Australia in June. We also share photos from the vibrant Reconciliation in the West event, which we were privileged to co-host at Tauondi Aboriginal College.

Finally, on behalf of our entire organisation, I would like to express gratitude to everyone who has donated towards our Winter Appeal this year.

On page 13, we bring you the story of one of the many people who is able to benefit from the annual appeal, thanks to the community’s generosity.

We are also particularly excited to bring you details of what’s taken place at our former Regency Green Aged Care site.

Turn to page 6 to find out about our collaboration with the State Government, which has seen us repurpose the site to support the accommodation and care needs of NDIS participants who have been stranded in SA hospital beds.

This innovative housing response is helping to address an area of critical need, and we look forward to activating the remainder of the site in the coming weeks to house people escaping war-torn countries.

I hope you enjoy this edition of Flourish, which is a reflection of our diverse programs and people.

Thank you for being part of the UnitingSA community.

Jenny Hall Chief Executive Officer

For the first time in Flourish, in this edition we take a look at the work UNITINGSA

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FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

IN THIS ISSUE

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Our Ferryden Park Community Housing development has taken out dual honours at the UDIA SA Awards

Joy and Richard’s incredible wedding story is proof that it’s never too late for love

Learn how our 24-Hour House is helping young people gain independence and get their lives on track

UPCOMING DATES September

October

November

8 R U OK? Day

1 International Day of Older Persons

11 Remembrance Day

10 World Suicide Prevention Day

1–31 Mental Health Month

13 World Kindness Day

21 International Day of Peace

10 World Homeless Day

19–27 Social Inclusion Week

UNITING SA ANNUAL PROFILE

11,753

1,005

53

1,802

2,236

PEOPLE SUPPORTED

EMPLOYEES

VOLUNTEERS

PEOPLE SUPPORTED ACROSS AGED CARE

PEOPLE PROVIDED EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE

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FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

TEN YEARS OF CELEBRATION “ Kauwi Yerta ” Water Country

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ore than 1,000 people attended Tauondi Aboriginal College in June for the 10th anniversary of Reconciliation in the West.

The incredibly vibrant annual event piration for the UnitingSA artwork consists of water and land,in reflecting the brings the community Port Adelaide . Kudlyo (Black Swan) and Yambo (Port River dolphin) are significant togethertotothe celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and identity. area and important to the Kaurna Nation.

to make visible the hidden cultural layers of the Kaurna miyurna Held(Kaurna each year during National Reconciliation dscape and elevate the story to sit on top of the developed urban landscape.Week, this year’s theme was ‘Be Brave. Make Change.’ nto three main strips each representing different times in history including

The day was full of interactive stalls, the past, here and now and the future. entertainment ded in the dreaming of the Kaurna miyurna and celebrates a deep connectionfrom Aboriginal nnecting to the European heritage of Portt Adelaide. The artwork uses a nnects UnitingSA’s roots with the City of Port Adelaide and into the future.

performers and community leaders, activities, a colour run and traditional cultural sharing.

There was also story-telling in Nylon Zoo’s giant inflatable echidna, as well as weaving, dancing and language classes.

UnitingSA is proud to co-host the event each year with Tauondi Aboriginal College, Life Without Barriers and AnglicareSA. A huge thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the day such a success – we can’t wait to do it all again next year!

ement over the land bringing the history of UnitingSA and it’s significant milestones achieved over the last 100 years.

the conceptual approach and design was undertaken with UnitingSA staff, mittee members and members of the Aboriginal community.

Reconciliation Action Plan endorsed

Artwork Design by Artist Allan Sumner Ngarrindjeri / Kaurna / Yankunytjatjara 2019

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e are proud to share that UnitingSA’s inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) June 2022 – June 2023 has been officially endorsed by Reconciliation Australia.

RECONCILIATION

ACTION PLAN JUNE 2022 - JUNE 2023

Our ‘Reflect’ RAP builds on our long and enduring history of engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

It outlines our commitment, as well as tangible steps we will take to build strong relationships, respect, opportunities and drive lasting change in our walk together towards reconciliation.

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Thank you to our RAP Committee for driving the creation and implementation of our plan, as well as Reconciliation Australia for collaborating with us throughout this process.

Our RAP Committee includes First Nations staff members, as well as members of UnitingSA’s Board of Directors, Executive Management team and broader workforce.

The development of the RAP also included consultation with local Aboriginal communities and Elders, as well as teams working right across our service portfolio.

View our RAP and stay up to date with our activities at unitingsa.com.au/rap

FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

excursion group, which involves monthly outings to destinations across South Australia. Some months, the excursions were the only time she felt comfortable leaving the house.

Over the years, Anna was able to participate more in the world around her, rather than feeling the need to isolate herself.

But she will be the first to tell you that the fluctuating nature of mental health means recovery is not a one-way path.

“It took a long time trying to climb out,” she explains.

“It’s like I would dig a hole and try to climb out, and then dig a deeper hole and try to climb out.

“But UnitingSA never gave up – they just kept on persisting and each time they would encourage and push even harder to get me out of it again.”

THE RESILIENCE TO REBUILD

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nitingSA’s GP Access program has been providing psychosocial support for people with mental health challenges for almost 20 years.

Without it, Anna doesn’t like to imagine what her life would look like today.

“It was like I was drowning and I couldn’t see the light,” she says.

“There were times when I became so isolated I couldn’t even answer the door but UnitingSA kept persevering.

“I honestly don’t think I would still be here if it wasn’t for the support of the program.”

It was 2004 when Anna first came into contact with the team at GP Access.

Aged in her 30s, she had escaped an abusive relationship in the Gold Coast and moved to Adelaide with her three-year-old daughter in tow.

She arrived with little more than the clothes on her back and had to rebuild her life.

“I was a real mess – mentally and physically,” she recalls.

“I didn’t have a car or any furniture.

I didn’t have a job.”

Anna eventually secured a rental property in Woodville but a series of events proved it wasn’t a safe environment to live in with her daughter.

Her mental health started to spiral and she didn’t know where to turn.

Anna’s support workers have changed over the years but she says they each had the ability to help her push forward, despite setbacks.

Last year, her final support worker John helped her transition from the GP Access program to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

“John is like a brother to me and even after I transitioned to the NDIS, he still held my hand when I needed it,” she says.

Anna met with her GP, who recommended mental health support and referred her to GP Access.

She was soon meeting with her first support worker, Phil, who quickly realised that as well as mental health support, Anna required a safer home for her small family.

Phil helped connect her with UnitingSA Housing, which was then known as Portway Housing Association, and over time the team was able to secure her an affordable home.

In addition, Anna was connected with other UnitingSA supports, including financial counselling, food parcels, blankets, and access to the No Interest Loan Scheme to buy kitchen appliances and a mobile phone.

“Having all of that support connected through the same organisation was amazing,” Anna says.

“They guided me through a time that was really difficult.”

Through GP Access, Anna met with her support worker weekly for help to get to medical appointments, undertake shopping, and connect with other services to support her health and wellbeing.

She also became one of the first participants in the GP Access UNITINGSA

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“There was always someone I could call.

In absolutely every avenue, I had support.”

ANNA

These days, Anna is pretty happy with her lot in life. She has downsized to a comfy unit, recently reconnected with her sister, and enjoys going for walks, pottering around the house, doing crosswords and cooking.

And despite having exited the GP Access program, Anna has an open invitation to join in the monthly group excursions – something she readily accepts.

“I love that group, I will definitely keep attending,” she says.

“Everyone is like family.

“My life is so much better now – I am finally out of that hole – and it wouldn’t have been possible without UnitingSA.”

FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

Westminster Village revamp milestone

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fter 12 months of construction, we are excited to complete a major redevelopment of our 101-bed Westminster Village Aged Care home in Grange.

The first residents moved into the new 37-bed wing featuring private rooms with en suites, modern communal lounges, dining and activity areas in May. Internal courtyards and a large undercover patio also formed part of the project, in addition to environmentally friendly features such as a 100kW solar system.

CEO Jenny Hall says the redevelopment is part of UnitingSA’s commitment to investing in high quality Aged Care infrastructure and services to support older South Australians.

“We want our Aged Care homes to bring residents all of the quality, modern amenities we expect in new buildings, while also providing a strong sense of home, comfort and belonging,” Jen says.

“The Westminster Village Aged Care redevelopment strikes this balance perfectly and we look forward to seeing residents enjoy this new space for many years to come.

“On behalf of UnitingSA, I extend a huge thank you to the entire project team, including Kennett Builders and architects Walter Brooke, for bringing our vision to life.”

NEW PURPOSE FOR AGED CARE HOME

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nitingSA has repurposed Regency Green Aged Care to help ease pressure on SA hospital beds, by becoming temporary supported accommodation for some of the state’s stranded NDIS participants.

In future weeks, the site will also become home to refugees escaping war-torn countries such as Afghanistan and the Ukraine as part of a partnership with AMES Australia – an organisation that helps support refugees as they transition into new lives in SA. UnitingSA has provided 24 beds as part of the first stage of the site’s reactivation, which will help to support some of the 230 discharge-ready NDIS participants stranded in SA hospital beds.

More than half are ready for discharge and no longer need acute hospital care or clinical input, and some have been in beds for more than 100 days as they await NDIS approvals, services or suitable accommodation.

UnitingSA CEO Jenny Hall says the initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to offer practical solutions to support the community’s most vulnerable people.

The Regency Green site closed in May, with a future plan to develop an affordable housing precinct.

“But this will take time, and we are pleased to be able to offer this support in the interim,” Jen says.

“We recognised that repurposing Regency Green for these interim measures was a priority.”

Specialist disability service provider Community Living Options will provide 24-hour support and care at the site as part of the first stage.

We are also exploring partnerships with other organisations and government bodies to offer more critical accommodation solutions, including emergency accommodation for the homeless as the state continues to face a housing crisis.

“Helping people is at the heart of everything we do,” Jen says. “At the moment, this accommodation is an absolute necessity, and government and organisations like ours need to work together to provide immediate solutions.”

Find out more about the Regency Green Aged Care closure and see photos from our vibrant farewell event – Page 12.

“Repurposing this former aged care home will help bridge the gap for NDIS participants who need support while permanent housing is secured,” Jen says.

“It’s an ideal solution to help free up these vital hospital beds as the state continues to respond to the current wave of Covid-19 and influenza cases.

“In the near future, it will also provide vital accommodation to refugees trying to make a new start in Australia.”

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FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

YANG IS MOVING FORWARD

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hen Chinese born Yang and his wife Fan came to Australia in 2019, they dreamed of a better life.

While Yang was a real estate evaluator in China and his wife worked in international law, their qualifications weren’t recognised in Australia.

But that didn’t bother them. The young couple left China in pursuit of a simpler life and wanted to work in roles where they could help people.

“I was feeling very low. I had low self-esteem.

Being connected was very important to me.”

“I wanted to join in with the community, to help people.”

However, finding employment didn’t come as easily for Yang and he soon found himself feeling isolated and alone.

Yang says he was lucky to find his way to the UnitingSA office in Whyalla, where trainer Corie Walters helped him rebuild his confidence through the Moving Forward program.

He didn’t know how he would ever gain meaningful employment, even though he really wanted to take care of older people and be part of the community.

Moving Forward is an eight week employability skills program, which helps people gain real-life skills, confidence and pathways to employment.

“I wanted to change, to learn, to connect to everyone,” Yang says.

The program also teaches fundamental and practical skills to help participants gain employment, like how to write a resume and prepare for job interviews.

Moving Forward has helped Yang reach a better state of mind, and he’s now feeling more at home in Whyalla.

It has not only rebuilt his confidence but also developed his job search skills and improved his English.

YANG

Fan studied social work while Yang pursued a career in Aged Care.

The couple now have a home in Whyalla after Fan found permanent local employment in social work.

covering topics such as the importance of a positive attitude, goal setting, confidence building, networking, and how to maintain respectful relationships.

Yang is now much happier, and ready to move forward with the next chapter of his life in Australia.

“I’m looking forward to joining the community, and sharing happiness and joy with other people,” he says.

Moving Forward is welcoming new students in Whyalla.

To find out more, contact Corie Walters on 0467 806 145 or cwalters@unitingsa.com.au.

Each week, Corie helps participants through easy to follow modules UNITINGSA

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FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

DUAL HONOUR FOR HOUSING

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e are extremely proud that UnitingSA’s Ferryden Park Community Housing development has been recognised with two Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) SA Awards for Excellence.

The innovative community housing provides much-needed homes for women aged 55 and over, who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness in South Australia.

At the Adelaide Convention Centre on July 29, the development was named winner of the UDIA SA’s Small Scale Development Award and the Aged Care & Community Housing Award.

UnitingSA CEO Jenny Hall says the dual honour is an incredible achievement, which recognises both the quality of the development and the importance of its community impact.

“We know older women are the fastest growing homeless population in the country and we were inspired to build the Ferryden Park Community Housing development to address this area of significant need,” Jen says.

“Not only does this development provide older women a stable home but it provides access to a range of wrap-around services to support their health and wellbeing.

“We are humbled to receive this recognition by the UDIA SA – it really is testament to what can be achieved when good design meets meaningful outcomes.”

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The Ferryden Park Community Housing development – designed

by City Collective and constructed

by Cook Building – includes eight contemporary two-bedroom houses with open plan living, landscaped gardens and energy efficient features to reduce utility costs for tenants.

A communal undercover outdoor area and shared gardens are located centrally to encourage connection and foster a sense of community among residents.

Jen says the project would not have been possible without the SA Housing Authority (SAHA), which provided a $1 million grant, and members of the local Gospel Mission, who gifted the land.

“A sincere thank you to our project partners, who worked with us over many years to bring our vision to life,” she says.

“This is a prime example of what can be achieved when government and values-based organisations come together to address the needs of our community.

“We hope this collaborative development can be used as a model for future housing responses in South Australia.”

FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

The ceremony was followed by a reception with family and friends at a North Haven retirement village, where Richard lives, with people travelling from near and far to attend.

Joy was especially touched that her daughter and granddaughter travelled from Ukraine, where they had been volunteering in the war relief efforts, to ensure they could be part of the special occasion.

“It really was such a happy crowd, with many people who hadn’t seen each other for years,” Joy recalls.

“It was a lovely wedding and a beautiful day – I couldn’t ask for nicer.”

NEVER TOO LATE FOR LOVE

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n paper, it sounds like any other relationship.

Boy meets girl, a friendship slowly turns romantic, they get married and embark on an East Coast road trip to celebrate their nuptials.

The difference is, Joy and Richard are aged 92 and 87.

“Not in my wildest dreams did I ever think this would happen,” Joy says.

“Plus she has a gorgeous smile and she sees something in me that I don’t – it’s a big plus.”

RICHARD

“My first husband died 36 years ago when he was only 55 and I wasn’t interested in another relationship.

“I hadn’t been on a date since.”

All that changed in February last year.

After 20 years of friendship, Joy and Richard went on their first date.

Both widowers after Richard lost his wife following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease, their friendship slowly transitioned into a relationship.

But she was quick to say yes and a wedding soon followed – the pair not wanting to waste another moment of their twilight years.

They wed on Sunday, April 24, during morning Mass at Semaphore’s Sacred Heart Church, with three of Joy’s granddaughters as bridesmaids and Richard’s son as best man.

Joy has lived in UnitingSA’s retirement living communities for the past 20 years – first as a resident in the former Wesley House units and for the past decade, at Willason Grove in Semaphore Park.

Before setting off on their honeymoon, Joy handed in her keys and moved in with Richard to begin their life as husband and wife.

Their first adventure together as a married couple was a three-month road trip through Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland, visiting family and friends along the way.

They wanted to spend their honeymoon enjoying a mix of relaxation and adventure, while also taking some time to plan their future.

“I am looking forward to just enjoying the companionship really, which is something I haven’t had for years,” Joy says.

“We’ve got a lot in common – we love reading, we love travelling, we love nature, we love cooking.

“To have someone to discuss things with and share life with is amazing.”

Joy says her love story provides a timely reminder for others in older age to “never give up”.

“You don’t know what’s around the corner,” she says.

“Don’t be afraid to take a risk and take every opportunity with both hands.”

Joy says it was Richard’s “gentleness and caring nature” that really drew her in.

Richard jokes he chose Joy because he needed an older woman: “To tell the truth, it had to be someone of her age – I couldn’t keep up with anyone younger!”

But in all seriousness, Richard says Joy is “just a beautiful person, beautiful personality, very gentle, very kind and very loving”.

When Richard got down on one knee to propose over a home cooked meal one evening, Joy was taken by surprise.

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FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

YOUTH HOMELESSNESS – FROM SURVIVING TO THRIVING

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ucked away in a nook in Adelaide’s western suburbs lies a house, in which a team of youth workers strive to support teenagers at a critical junction in their lives.

The 24-Hour House – part of UnitingSA’s Western Adelaide Homelessness Services – provides a refuge for young people, aged 15 to 18, who are experiencing homelessness.

Up to eight young people are accommodated at any one time but the service provides much more than just a roof over their heads.

Coordinator Nathan will tell you it’s a place where young people are heard and supported to set goals, reconnect with education or employment, and essentially get their lives on track.

“We begin setting goals with the young person straight away,” Nathan says.

“It’s finding out what’s going to work for them and helping them get there.

“We know what can happen, we know the choices young people can make – our job is to help them get on the right path.”

The 24-Hour House – formerly known as Port Youth – operates with a ‘no wrong door’ policy, with young people finding their way to the service through many avenues. Most commonly they are referred from other homelessness services, community organisations and schools.

The first step upon referral is determining the most appropriate housing response and pathway.

Wherever possible, family reunification is pursued if there is a safe environment for young people to return to.

Over the past 12 months, more than a dozen young people have been successfully reunified with family members, which Nathan says is the “ultimate outcome”.

“If reunification isn’t an option and there’s nowhere appropriate for them to go outside of the homelessness sector, that’s when they stay here.”

For the young people who take up residence in the 24-Hour House, they begin the process of learning how to live independently.

They each take part in an onsite program covering key skills such UNITINGSA

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as managing finances, finding housing, social development, and understanding their legal rights and responsibilities.

Some people will also require the external support of mental health or alcohol and other drug services, and the 24-Hour House team helps to make these connections.

Reconnecting with education and training is also central to their residency.

“Getting the young people back into school is something we hold in really high regard,” Nathan says.

“Once we get them back in, it’s about helping them maintain it – getting up each day, getting them to make their lunch, supporting them to do their homework.

“We make sure all our kids are engaged in something – it’s really important.”

And just like at home, the young people are expected to contribute to the household by taking part in the weekly cooking roster and pitching in on chores.

FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

Celebrating Resilience & Achievement

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ere are just a few of the amazing outcomes achieved by young people at the 24-Hour House over the past 12 months.

A 17-YEAR-OLD… Moved into the house last year after a difficult family life led her to become homeless. She stopped going to school and had spent a period of time couch surfing before being referred to the service. The team supported her to pursue her creative talents and complete a jewellery making course. She is now back at school completing year 12 and is also learning hospitality skills through an apprenticeship program. Late last year, she transitioned to another youth accommodation service as the next stage towards independent living. The 24-Hour House team plans to help her transition to housing within the community later this year.

AN 18-YEAR-OLD… Spent four months at the house last year after a situation of family violence meant he no longer felt safe at home. While living at the house, he was supported to complete year 12 with incredible results. He also secured an AFL traineeship in nutrition and dietetics, which he is completing this year. He has now transitioned to supportive housing in the community and plans to attend university to pursue a career in dietetics.

“There are rules and expectations here – it’s all about getting them ready for independent life outside of the house,” Nathan says.

“The young people help plan the meals, work out what is needed at the shops, and then on a Saturday morning a worker will take them all to do the weekly shopping.

“Then when they cook there’s an expectation they cook for everyone in the house.

“We look at what we need to teach them to give them the best opportunity of being able to transition to living independently in the community.”

Over the past year, the average length of stay for young people was four months, but it varies considerably depending on each person’s needs.

When exiting, young people are supported along the housing continuum. Youth accommodation programs, such as Foyer Port Adelaide, along with transitional and supportive housing are common next steps.

person in need of shelter, support and a guiding hand.

The 24-Hour House is staffed by a team of 12 youth workers, who are rostered around the clock.

Several are stalwarts of the house, having been drawn in by the diversity of the work and sticking around because despite its challenges, it’s a hugely rewarding place to be.

For Senior Youth Worker Abbie, it’s the young people themselves who have kept her working at the house for seven years.

A 15-YEAR-OLD… Left home last year escaping an unsafe family environment and was referred to the house. Over the past six months, the team has supported her to move schools and she is now on track to complete high school next year. Now aged 16, her life is full of diverse activities including being a member of the Navy Cadets, learning to swim through the local Surf Life Saving Club, and receiving two Youth Opportunities scholarships to support her education. She was also sponsored by the local Rotary Club to take part in a five-day voyage to York Peninsula on the One and All sailing ship earlier this year. She is about to commence a hospitality apprenticeship after discovering a love of cooking through the 24-Hour House, and hopes to become a chef in the Army after completing school.

“Meeting so many young people and getting to know them has got to be the best part,” she says.

“We are living here with them essentially – we see them when they’ve just woken up, we see them when they go to bed at night.

“We really get to see their personality and find out all their intricacies.

“Every single young person is great in their own way.”

Their ‘graduation’ from the service frees up space for another young UNITINGSA

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“Coming here has given me so many opportunities. I like that I get to cook for the house and they enjoy my cooking.

The workers are very nice and they help me with my school work.

The kids are nice as well.

They have become my family.”

FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

NEW CHAPTER IN AGED CARE

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e have marked the end of an era at Regency Green Aged Care, which closed in May after almost 20 years supporting older people in Regency Park.

“We are excited about this new chapter for our residents, families and team members.”

UNITINGSA CEO JENNY HALL

Regency Green residents and staff were supported to transition to an alternate UnitingSA Aged Care home of their choice.

UnitingSA CEO Jenny Hall commended the entire Regency Green Aged Care community for coming together to support a positive transition process.

“The way everyone has worked together during this time of significant change has been remarkable and is testament to our incredible community of residents, families and staff,” Jen says.

“Regency Green Aged Care has provided a wonderful home for many years and those memories will be cherished by those who have lived and worked at the site.

“However, Regency Green was never purpose-built for aged care and as an organisation we have other homes that UNITINGSA

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are better able to meet the ongoing needs of residents and families.

“We have also been delighted to be able to transition Regency Green staff to other sites, where they will be able to continue their important work supporting older members of our community.”

UnitingSA opened Regency Green Aged Care in 2003 following a refurbishment of the site on Days Rd, which had previously been occupied by the Crippled Children’s Association.

It was a pioneer in multicultural aged care, with a strong representation of bilingual staff to ensure the delivery of culturally appropriate care and support to its diverse community.

A vibrant event was held with residents and staff at Regency Green in April, to give the site a fitting farewell.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of the Regency Green story.

FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

WINTER APPEAL 2022 Thank you for helping people like John

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ohn has been living in his car since a back injury a few years ago changed his life irrevocably.

In what seemed like an instant, he could no longer find work. His signwriting business of 15 years went bust, and he couldn’t make the repayments on his home.

He’d exhausted all his savings and, as an older Australian at retirement age, he couldn’t find anyone to lend him money.

The bank repossessed his home and John found himself on the street.

“Within three months, my health really deteriorated,” John says.

“I wanted to get better, but things just got worse.

“I had absolutely no money. I could not afford rent.”

His ordeal worsened when he developed diabetes. He was also diagnosed with a hereditary blood disorder called Thalassaemia, which made his diabetes difficult to monitor.

And then, Covid-19 forced the world into shutdown.

Already isolated from friends and family, Covid-19 meant John was further separated from his community.

He couldn’t even use the barbecue where he parked.

But still, John – a well-spoken, hard-working, honest man – battled on.

He saw families living on the street as well as single parents, kids and couples.

He once met a mum with a severely disabled, adult son living in their car.

They also gave him petrol cards to enable him to get to medical appointments.

In June this year, UnitingSA was finally able to find John a public housing unit in the strained rental market.

He is one of the lucky ones.

But thousands of other South Australians remain homeless.

UnitingSA will continue to work hard to address the needs of vulnerable people across our community.

With help from our generous sponsors and partners across South Australia, together we can make a difference in the lives of those in need.

“She was the only one that brought a tear to my eye,” John says.

“It was terrible.”

Two years in, John reached out for help.

He called UnitingSA’s Western Adelaide Homelessness Services, who gave him a grocery voucher and accommodation in a motel. He was able to “lie down straight” and have some respite from the street.

Our generous donors

People from all walks of life have dug deep to support those in the community who are doing it tough.

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From financial contributions through to in-kind gifts of warm blankets and swags, toiletries, and non-perishable food items, every donation has helped us make a difference in the lives of others.

e have been overwhelmed by the generosity of our community in supporting our annual Winter Appeal.

During this time, our Homelessness Services team helped John make it through with hot meals, kind words and access to medical services.

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Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the Appeal, which helps us deliver support to people like John.

If you’d like to donate to UnitingSA’s service delivery, please visit our website at unitingsa.com.au/donate or call (08) 8440 2200.

FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

EXPO CONNECTS CULTURES

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e hosted a Community Aged Care Expo in the Riverland in June to help connect older people from diverse cultures with the services they need to stay safe and independent at home.

More than 60 older people joined us at the Renmark Club to learn more about the services available to them across the region.

Stallholders included Dementia Australia, Carers SA, Mobility Mates and the Australian Red Cross Transport Service.

Zeynep Al coordinated the expo as part of her work with UnitingSA’s EnCOMPASS Multicultural Aged Care Connector program, which is funded by the Commonwealth Government.

“Accessing aged care services can be extremely complex and if you add in language barriers, it becomes even more difficult,” Zeynep says.

“The aim of the expo was to help older people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds

to find out more about the support available to them in the Riverland.

“Through our EnCOMPASS program we can help people through every step of the aged care journey, from getting an assessment of their needs through to accessing equipment and connecting to services.

“The expo helped more people find out about how to get the support they need to ensure they can live a meaningful life and remain as independent as possible as they age.”

Riverland locals Stavros and Nina Glykos are the prime example of the difference a bit of extra support can make.

In late 2021, they learned about the EnCOMPASS program and started meeting with Zeynep for help with their aged care needs.

Zeynep supported Stavros, aged 87, through the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) process, which led to him being approved for a Home Care Package.

She has helped the couple to complete bathroom modifications, purchase a

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specialised chair to assist with mobility, access a personal alarm system for increased safety, and connect with transport services for trips to Adelaide for appointments.

Stavros is also on his way to getting a new gopher, which he eagerly awaits to enhance his independence and allow him to visit the local shops without assistance.

Nina says the support has had an incredible impact on both of their lives.

“We don’t have any family living nearby so to know we have Zeynep to help us makes such a difference,” Nina says.

“Having a person to call on to help makes you feel safe – it’s really big.

“Every time we call for help she is there and she gives us such positive energy.

“It is such a big support, both practically and emotionally.”

For help connecting with Aged Care services in the Riverland, contact UnitingSA’s EnCOMPASS program on (08) 8548 9400.

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TOP HONOUR FOR TERESA

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nitingSA extends a huge congratulations to Teresa Nowak, who was announced as a recipient of a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in June.

The Regional Coordinator of our Ethnic Link Services program in Whyalla was recognised for almost 50 years of service to the multicultural community of South Australia.

Teresa joined UnitingSA in 1997 as a Multilingual Support Worker, before becoming Regional Coordinator in 2012.

She has been actively involved across the community throughout her working life, with a multitude of roles including as Deputy Chair and Commission Member of the South Australian Multicultural and Ethnic Affairs Commission, Management Committee Member of the Whyalla Migrant and Ethnic Communities Centre, conference member with the St Vincent de Paul Society, and as a justice of the peace for more than 30 years.

She also helped to establish the Filipino Cultural Association in Whyalla 40 years ago and remains an advisor to this day.

program to support people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

“I am greatly privileged and it has been a very enriching experience.”

“I have been truly blessed to meet so many wonderful people from all over the world and to share their cultures, customs, languages, music, dancing, religion, happy and sad times.”

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Teresa moved to Australia from Poland as a teenager and attributes her experiences as a migrant to greatly influencing her career.

“Having experienced the migration and settlement process myself, I can empathise with those I support through my work,” she says.

“It comes very naturally to me.”

She is “delighted” to be named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list and eagerly awaits the award ceremony at Government House later this year.

“This particular award is very precious – it’s a great honour and I am very grateful,” she says.

“I want to say thank you to UnitingSA for providing Ethnic Link Services because it’s such an important

“The ceremony is going to be a great experience and I am sure a very moving one for me.”

RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE IN CULTURAL AGED CARE

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ongratulations to our Ethnic Link Services team, who were finalists in the Excellence in Service Delivery category of the national Cultural Diversity in Ageing Excellence Awards in June.

and specialised services provided by our bilingual, bicultural support workers,” Melissa says.

“By speaking the same language and understanding the cultural values and traditions of our older clients, we can ensure the services they receive are personalised, appropriate and relevant to their needs.”

The awards recognise and showcase initiatives that promote excellence in the provision of culturally inclusive aged care services across Australia.

The vibrant awards night in Melbourne, which was rescheduled from 2021 due to Covid-19, was attended by industry leaders working across the multicultural and aged care sectors.

UnitingSA Community Aged Care Manager Melissa Cox attributed this wonderful recognition to the passionate support workers within the program.

Congratulations to all other finalists and winners for their positive impact on the lives of culturally diverse, older Australians.

“This is a huge honour for our organisation, but this achievement would not be possible without the dedication UNITINGSA

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n 6 July, our Child, Youth and Family Services hosted a vibrant NAIDOC Week event in Port Adelaide to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in our community.

The event, which attracted around 200 attendees, was opened by Aunty Roslyn Coleman who delivered an inspiring Welcome to Country and shared what this year’s theme of ‘Get Up, Stand Up, Show Up’ meant to her.

The remainder of the event was jampacked with activities and entertainment, including Animals Anonymous showcasing native reptiles and birds, Kalaya Children’s Centre Choir, a Kumangka Karrarendi Poetry Group recital, face-painting and delicious tasting platters which included native bush ingredients from Tauondi Aboriginal College.

COMMUNITY UNITES FOR NAIDOC WEEK

A big thank you to Lions Club West Lakes – Seaton for running the BBQ lunch, as well as generous local businesses who donated their time or goods to ensure we could keep the event free and engaging for all.

Women’s economic empowerment project

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nitingSA has been awarded more than $16,000 in grant funding to launch a Women’s Economic Empowerment project to support vulnerable women living across Adelaide.

The mentoring program will help women overcome barriers to education, employment and community participation and support their journey towards economic independence.

Through a combination of one-on-one meetings, group sessions, training, online resources and collaborative community activities, participants will work towards developing the skills and confidence required to achieve their goals.

The Women’s Economic Empowerment project aims to improve participants’ financial understanding, self-esteem, communication, conflict resolution and negotiation skills, as well as their awareness around rights and responsibilities.

UnitingSA Child, Youth & Family Services Manager Angela De Conno says a key aspect of the program will involve supporting women to have stronger and more diverse community connections.

“Not only will this project allow women to express their social, community and economic aspirations, it will also create safe, women-friendly environments,” Angela says.

“It will increase feelings of safety and belonging by enabling women to develop relationships with other participants, be linked with community support services and increase their knowledge of local resources.”

Angela says the program is particularly relevant in the current climate, owing to a rise in the number of women reporting financial, physical and emotional abuse by their partners.

“Through our community programs we are seeing a high level of need UNITINGSA

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among women experiencing financial hardship and economic disempowerment,” she says.

“The establishment of this program responds to issues of education, training and participation among South Australian women impacted by family relationships, domestic violence and socio-economic factors.”

Grants SA awarded the funding to UnitingSA as part of its focus on supporting women’s economic and financial participation.

Eligible clients from across UnitingSA services will participate in the program.

In addition, some public workshops will be held at Taperoo Community Centre on 15 September and 3 November for members of the community.

To book a place in a Women’s Economic Empowerment workshop, contact Taperoo Community Centre Coordinator Kathy Miller on 8248 2122.

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ESCAPING VIOLENCE PROGRAM HELPING TO REBUILD LIVES

Positive feedback from the people we’ve supported:

“From the bottom of our heart we are so grateful and thankful.

Our Christmas was indeed joyous – we not only now have a home, but we’re able to start our life safely and comfortably.”

“Your words of encouragement, value, strength and uplift have made so very much of a difference.”

“What you do is wonderful and greatly appreciated. Without this [EVP program] I would have no option but to drop charges and ask the perpetrator for help; so know you are making a difference.”

“Thanks to you guys I am now on top of my bills and we have everything we need here at home, and I can’t thank you enough. Such a weight off my shoulders.”

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nitingSA is among 10 UnitingCare Network consortium organisations across Australia delivering the Escaping Violence Payment (EVP) program.

The trial, funded by the Commonwealth Government until June 2023, provides financial assistance and wrap-around support to assist people to establish sustainable independence and safety beyond intimate partner violence.

Since the program began in October 2021, UnitingSA has been helping people receive funding for vital goods and services to help them leave a violent partner and rebuild their life.

UnitingSA’s EVP Team Leader, Jasmine Arnall, explains that when first connecting with clients, case managers seek to understand their individual goals to develop funding and wrap-around supports.

“For many clients, it’s the first time they’ve told their story. They build a strong rapport with our case managers, who then organise funding for critical

items such as rent and bond, removalists and household items to furnish their accommodation,” Jasmine says.

“Basically anything that they need to secure their safety and set them up for sustainable independence.

“Once this is sorted, we assist clients with referrals to other agencies or UnitingSA services, including counselling, emotional and family support services.”

The team have received encouraging feedback about the program so far, with data showing that intimate partner violence doesn’t discriminate.

There have been people of all genders and ages, from diverse backgrounds and socio-economic status seeking support, as well as individuals and people with dependents.

Many clients have never sought support before, and with financial insecurity being one of the main barriers for people leaving or returning to a violent partner, the practicality of the Escaping Violence Payment program is why it is making such a positive difference.

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“I can’t express how good life feels right now and I owe a lot of it to you guys.”

“I don’t know how I would have been able to set up house again, buy groceries, pay rent and register my car. I am so grateful for all the help I received from the service and would love to see it continue for other women in my situation. Keep up the good work.”

“Thank you for all the formal support you have provided for myself and my family unit.

It has been incredibly important to us and such an important step to our healing.”

“EVP is a great initiative and it will truly save lives.”

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aperoo Community Centre’s new French-inspired café is providing local residents and centre participants a space to enjoy a cuppa, cake and friendly conversation.

Every Tuesday morning, the space on Yongala Street, Taperoo, comes alive with ‘Café des Amities’ – the café of friendship.

Centre Coordinator Kathy Miller says the café has been made possible thanks to prize money received from winning the 2021 Community Centres SA Loneliness Cure Award.

THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW AT TAPEROO

“We were so proud to win the award for our poetry program and to be able to turn the prize money into a welcoming café is such a great outcome,” Kathy says.

“It’s wonderful that we’ve been able to refresh this space and even better that our participants have the opportunity to regularly connect with one another and enjoy a cuppa and cake.”

That’s not the only new addition to the centre.

UnitingSA supplier, CCI Purchasing, recently donated a ‘Vegepod’ raised vegetable garden, complete with gardening tools, potting mix and seedlings.

Centre volunteer and participant, Jason, is delighted with the donation.

“I’ve planted tomato, basil, parsley and thyme to use in cooking,” he says.

“I love that it’s on wheels so I can move it around to wherever it is sunny.”

The centre hopes to have a bumper crop of fresh herbs and vegetables soon, which participants can take home to use in their cooking.

UnitingSA Housing attains Tier 1 status

Residential Aged Care tours now available

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nitingSA Housing has attained Tier 1 status through the National Regulatory System for Community Housing.

This classification demonstrates UnitingSA Housing’s commitment to delivering high-quality, affordable housing, and recognises our huge potential for growth.

UnitingSA CEO Jenny Hall says the team is “proud to have received this respected industry classification, which recognises the anticipated growth of our portfolio over the coming years”.

“It demonstrates our capacity to meet the highest level of performance requirements and regulatory standards, and will support us to increase our supply of high quality, affordable accommodation for people in need,” Jen says.

“It is testament to our team who work tirelessly to create homes that enhance the wellbeing of our tenants.”

UnitingSA Housing also became a registered Specialist Disability Accommodation provider through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in March.

This will allow us to diversify our housing portfolio to meet the needs of people living with disability.

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e are now offering weekly tours of all UnitingSA Residential Aged Care homes to help prospective residents and their families find a home that suits their needs.

Hawksbury Gardens, Wesley House, West Lakes, Westminster Village and Seaton Aged Care are all available to tour at various times throughout the week.

All people attending must be up-to-date with Covid-19 and seasonal Influenza vaccinations and provide a negative Rapid Antigen Test prior to entry.

To book a tour, visit unitingsa.com.au/tours, phone 8448 6280 or email admissions@ unitingsa.com.au.

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CENTENARIANS EMBRACED IN PORTRAIT PROJECT

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entenarians at UnitingSA Aged Care homes have been captured in portraits

by South Australian teenagers as part of an intergenerational art project.

Ten of our 100-year-olds were involved in The Centenarian Portrait Project by Teenagers, which culminated in an exhibition at the Drill Hall at the Torrens Parade Ground in June.

The uplifting art initiative helped capture and celebrate a moment in the life of some of our oldest citizens, with stunning results.

The process began with teenage artists getting to know their subject through a series of meetings and interviews – face to face when Covid-safe to do so, or through remote interactions such as letter writing, online sessions and phone calls.

For most teens, it provided a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet a centenarian – and for these wonderful residents it was the chance to share the story of their life.

The project was also rolled out in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania, with a plan to host a project in Western Australia also underway.

Creative Director of organisers Embraced Inc, Rose Connors Dance, says the project was a highly personal creative process for every artist and centenarian involved.

“The connection formed between the young and old makes for a portrait with great meaning. To see what 100 years of life looks like through the eyes of young artists is incredible humbling for everyone involved.”

Portraits have been gifted back to centenarian participants for families to treasure for generations to come.

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The Centenarian Portrait Project is presented by Embraced Inc and proudly sponsored by Estia Health, the Commonwealth Department of Health, the Office for Ageing Well, SA Health and supported by the Australian Human Rights Commission.

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FLOURISH MAGAZINE | ISSUE NO. 14 | 2022

70 Dale Street • PO Box 3032, Port Adelaide, SA 5015 P. (08) 8440 2200 E. unitingsa@unitingsa.com.au W. unitingsa.com.au @unitingsa Photography: Catherine Leo at cathleo.com.au Cover photo: Bronwen Caple Photography Editorial enquiries or feedback: (08) 8200 9213 © Copyright 2022 UnitingSA