Salvos on alert as flood crisis hits mental health
Salvos on alert as flood crisis hits mental health
18 October 2022
Shepparton Corps Officer Captain Karyn Wishart (in the line with yellow vest) and her team unload supplies from a helicopter yesterday.
The flood crisis in NSW, Victoria and Tasmania has required local communities to band together more than ever. The devastating and sudden loss of a roof over one’s head, the rush to evacuate to safety and the stress caused by the unknown can have a lasting impact on individuals, families and businesses.
Captain Ronald Stobie and a helicopter ready for take-off with supplies.
While some are grateful to have people nearby to share the load, others feel scared and alone. And this is where The Salvation Army is equipped to assist.
According to Maryborough Corps Officer Captain Ronald Stobie, who is assisting at the Echuca centre, signs of stress and impacts on mental health are rising. “For those with pre-existing mental health issues, this is exacerbating,” he said.
“[I’m telling people to] just make sure you have someone to talk to. The Salvos are out, and we’re here to chat – the big thing is not to hold it in. Chat it through as it is actually happening.”
Echuca-Moama Corps Officer Auxiliary-Lieutenant Sonia Edwards is leading the team of Salvo workers in Echuca, who continue to provide meals and refreshments to evacuees and first responders.
The Salvation Army is operating out of nine evacuation centres in flood-affected areas, providing food, shelter, bedding, toiletries and clothing for those in need.
Major Warren Elliott, Public Relations Secretary for Victoria, is providing physical, emotional and spiritual support at the Shepparton evacuation centre. Warren is part of an energetic team that is being led by Shepparton Corps Officer Karyn Wishart.
The Shepparton Corps hall has been set up as a temporary accommodation centre for Salvo workers and volunteers.
“Despite what happens around us, we can still put our trust in Jesus [particularly] if it’s providing comfort and a sense of peace,” Warren said. “Despite what happens to our material things, in our heart, we’re okay.”
He said the aftermath of the floods will have a devastating impact on local communities, but he is assuring people that The Salvation Army will be around for the long haul to help communities to recover and rebuild. “We’re in the emergency phase and will be involved in recovery for months to come,” Warren said.
If you would like to make a financial donation via The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal, which supports Australian disasters, please visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 72 58 (13 SALVOS).
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