23 March 2020
Jewish Care Victoria has today launched a COVID-19 Helpline to assist and support those in the Victorian Jewish community impacted by the coronavirus.
The dedicated Helpline number is 8517 5555 and is initially operational Monday to Friday between 9:00am - 5:00pm for people who are, as a result of the coronavirus:
• Experiencing emotional distress and worry,
• Finding themselves socially isolated,
• Experiencing financial hardship, or
• Losing their connection to community and need a helping hand to run errands and collect groceries.
Jewish Care is the largest human services provider within the Victorian Jewish community and has a range of services and supports that can be accessed during this time of community and global crisis.
In addition, Jewish Care is working collaboratively with a range of other charitable organisations within the community to ensure the need of those most vulnerable can be met. By pooling resources from around the community and working together, Jewish Care can provide people with the support they need.
Jewish Care is delighted to be partnering with the Erdi Foundation, Spotlight Foundation, Victor Smorgon Charitable Trust, Gandel Philanthropy and Besen Family Foundation to assist and support those in the Jewish community of Victoria who have been adversely impacted by the coronavirus.
“Our community is at its best when faced with challenges. We witnessed the way in which we all rallied together during the recent bushfire crisis, and now with coronavirus, we are seeing even more strength, resilience, and caring for each other,” said Jewish Care Victoria CEO, Bill Appleby.
“These are unprecedented times and it calls for extraordinary efforts from everyone to ensure that our most vulnerable people in the community can remain safe and healthy.”
“By establishing this Helpline, we are able to provide some relief to individuals and families adversely affected by COVID-19 and remind our community that in these trying and difficult times, you are not alone.”
Jeffrey Pinch, Chairman, Erdi Foundation stated that, “Our community is currently facing a challenge which is unprecedented in our times. The Erdi Foundation is pleased to partner with Jewish Care, to be able to provide immediate support for the most vulnerable in our community in this time of need.”
If you are adversely affected by coronavirus and need support, please contact the COVID-19 Helpline on 8517 5555, Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm, or visit www.jewishcare.org.au/COVID19helpline to submit an online enquiry.