Equipment aimed at helping community members maintain a safe home environment has been purchased thanks to a generous donation by the Margaret River Lions Club.
Bess spokesperson Myriam Tate said the donation allowed for the purchase of gardening and home maintenance equipment which would be put to use in properties throughout the region.
“We provide domestic assistance to people in low care and home care situations which allows them to live safely and happily at home,” Ms Tate said.
“These tools will help us continue with the maintenance program which involves removal of unsafe garden debris, clearing paths and generally making the homes safer," she said.
Equipment purchased with the donation include a high pressure cleaner and tools for removing branches, cutting back overgrowth.
"There are situations such as mildew build up on pathways around homes, which is a serious trip and slip hazard for people already at risk of injury or needing those hazards removed from the home,” she said.
Bess has been established in the region for over 33 years with a volunteer taskforce accounting for around 80% of all services rendered.
As well as home maintenance help, the group also provides transport, Meals on Wheels, respite care and social support for a client base of over 850 community members.
Services are funded in part by the Home and Community Care (HACC) program as well as through donations from groups such as the Lions Club.
Speaking at the Lions Shed last week, club president Kaye Exell said the club was pleased to offer financial assistance to Bess.
“This is another example of how the Lions can and does help our community members directly, providing support to other groups when we can,” Ms Exell said.
The club continues to operate their popular bi-monthly garage sales in the Margaret River LIA where recycled goods donated by the local community are sold back to the public.
More information on Bess Home and Community Care services can be found at www.bess.org.au
