Ipswich Assist is Good360’s Member of The Month for March 2021! Ipswich Assist helps people in the community experiencing crisis or who have found themselves homeless. They offer physical aid of goods and financial aid to help their clients when they need it most. Read our full interview with Melissa from Ipswich Assist below.
When did you join Good360?
August 2020
What programs do you use your Good360 donations for? Who does the program serve? How does it impact Australians in need?
We have used Good360 donations for our emergency relief program, as well as our homeless and marginalised community lunch ministry. Our emergency relief program sees between 60 – 70 families each month, and these families range very broadly.
In the last month, we’ve assisted:
- A single mother of 3 who has left a women’s refuge after fleeing from a domestic violence situation.
- A family of 6 who’s been made homeless and is sleeping in a car, after the home they had been renting was sold to an interstate buyer.
- A homeless gentleman whose campsite has been inundated with mosquitos following the recent wet weather and minor flooding.
- A young lady who has left a toxic home environment and is now living on her own, was given cleaning essentials, laundry detergent and Empower Packs to provide essential, practical support as well as lift up her spirits.
Sadly, emergency relief support is becoming more and more necessary and government funding doesn’t always cover all the costs to be able to support those in need in the most effective way. Good360 allows us to spread our funds further, which results in us being able to help more people and provide help, hope, and support to those who need it.
What is your favourite moment/interaction that you have had with a client when utilising the Good360 product?
A favourite!? We have too many!
For me, the reaction from people receiving nappies for their babies and toddlers always tugs at my heart strings. Nappies are such essential items, and the look of relief on a parent’s face when they are given a big bag of nappies, wipes and other children’s items like Sippy cups is so beautiful.
Another favourite has been a very recent donation, following the torrential rain and flooding experienced in the area. A homeless man, whose campsite had turned into a mosquito breeding ground was given some mosquito coils. He was so thankful, and we were blown away by how much a simple, everyday item can make such a big impact!
How does Good360 help your mission?
We would be in a much trickier financial situation! We also wouldn’t be as stocked up on essentials, like body wash, nappies, sunscreen, toothpaste and soaps.
Empower Packs have also been an amazing addition to our arsenal. They’re always a bit special to our clients, because they’re receiving essentials, like food, hygiene items etc, but they’re also getting something else that’s a little bit special like a book, make-up, jewellery etc. It helps our clients feel a little bit more “human” when they’re in the middle of something that can be scary, intimidating and uncomfortable (especially when asking for help).
What is your favourite donation you have received from Good360? Why?
Our Program Manager Jason LOVES the Cuddly fabric softener! He went on annual leave for a week, when a delivery came through, so the Office Manager and I unpacked all of the boxes, and covered his desk, bookshelves and floor with bottles of Cuddly! It was really great!
How many lives have you impacted through Good360’s donations?
Approximately 1,900 lives, including children! How amazing!
You can learn more about Ipswich Assist on their website here.
To learn more about the benefits of Good360 membership and how to join visit our Get the Goods page.
