Across the city of Orange, hundreds of elderly residents require a helping hand, time to time.
Orange City Council’s, Choices at Home team, are calling on anyone who may be able to volunteer a few hours of their time to visit elderly clients who are still living independently at home, for as little as once a week.
While there are a number of clients who have someone who does pop around for a quick cup of tea and a conversation, others aren’t so lucky.
There are currently 7 aged residents who are going without that friendly face checking in to see how they’re going, and the list is growing.
Although it may not seem like much to some, the difference a volunteer who gives their time to others makes, is huge.
Elderly gentleman walking with volunteer
Orange City Council’s Community Services chair, Cr Stephen Nugent said “I feel like we can all agree, the older we get, the more we would ideally like to stay in our own home. So by having volunteers help out our elderly residents once a week, that becomes a reality.”
The Choices at Home service is provided through the Commonwealth Home Support Program, offered to Australians over the age of 65, and to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders over 50.
“To be a volunteer, you don’t need to have hours to spare, just one will do. You don’t need to be qualified to do it, as long as you are willing to help them out with a few simple tasks, you’ve ticked the box.” Cr Nugent said.
“One hour a week will make all the difference. So if you can give a little bit of your time, please do.”
