Volunteers wanted for support service
The Multicultural Support Service is seeking volunteers willing to join others on the Peninsula offering a free social support service to migrants in the area.
Residents who are over 65 years, who live with a disability or who are carers can gain assistance with shopping and other social activities through the service, according to office manager Ms Trudy Wahl.
The service provided a great way to meet people and keep active in the local community, she said.
"One of volunteers, Marilyn Perez Cabrera from Umina has been volunteering with the Multicultural Social Support Service for four years," Ms Wahl said.
"Marilyn was born in the Canary Islands in Spain, came to Australia in 1995 and is married with two children.
"Marilyn provides visits to two Spanish speaking people who live on the Peninsula and are house-bound and also helps them with medical appointments.
"She also visits a lady from South Africa and accompanies her on walks along the waterfront at Woy Woy.
"Marilyn has assisted other elderly clients from various countries with their shopping.
"She also transports clients to monthly social days and helps with activities on these days.
"Marilyn provides a valuable contribution to the service and those it supports."
According to Ms Perez Cabrera, volunteer work with the Multicultural Support Service is a very rewarding opportunity.
"I love helping to ease the isolation many people from other countries feel, especially those who do not speak English," Ms Perez Cabrera said.
"The thing I like most about volunteering is that it is such a rewarding experience for me.
"In helping others, I find that I am receiving more than I am giving.
"I love what I am able to do."
Ms Wahl said the service also provided monthly social days.
"Client social days are held monthly at Bateau Bay and are a great way for people from different language groups to meet together, share their stories, have fun and socialise with each other," Ms Wahl said.
For more information, phone 4334 3877.
Press release, 12 Feb 2009
Trudy Wahl, Multicultural Social Support Service