Past District Governor Bronwyn Stephens (who developed this project) leads a consortium of clubs and the Rotary Club of Melbourne South. She told us how she identified the need for simple items for people with unplanned hospital admissions. 

The Alfred Hospital Mental Health Unit has 1,200 admissions annually, many patients admitted have no care items. Around 40% of admissions are homeless. Even if not homeless, 68% of patients arrive as involuntary patients so they are not prepared for a stay at the hospital. 110 patients are admitted to the Mental Care Unit monthly, and their average stay is 17 days. 

The purpose  of the project is to provide a welcome care pack providing toiletries and comfort items, so patients know that the staff and wider society care about them and wish for them to be comfortable and to recover. 

This multi-club project is financed by a $9,000 District Grant, with Hawthorn RC contributing from funds raised at our last :Hat Day” lunch. 

Katrina Flinn (in her role as Treasurer) invited members to find new fundraising ideas, as Covid19 has reduced our fundraising activities this year. 

Two videos detailing the project were followed by some questions and answers. 

The  items are packed in bags from Boomerang Bags, and they contain a hair brush, lip balm, moisturising cream, deodorant, a notebook and pen, a water bottle and assorted casual clothing: socks, underwear, t-shirts and track suits.  

President Tilak thanked PDG Bronwyn, Katrina and their colleagues for the presentation, and assured them of contnued club support.