As the COVID-19 pandemic sent Victoria into lockdown, the alarming posts on social media and local news that nurses were gravely concerned for residents who were stuck in “solitary confinement” sent Rotary Macedon Ranges in action. Eager to do something to help, the idea of writing personal letters arose and the ‘You are not Alone’ project was born.
Initially, Club members wrote letters, but this soon expanded to include family members, friends and colleagues. It was also decided to add a youth element to the project by involving students from ‘Project Ready’ Gisborne Secondary College, who are studying a Certificate II in Volunteering and being mentored by Club members.
Social media call-outs for help with letter writing to the Macedon community attracted the attention of Manna Gum Family and Children’s Centre and Riddells Creek Kindergarten and colourful drawings from the children were also included.
After discussion with the aged care facility providers, it was decided to laminate all letters and drawings for easy sanitisation before being given to residents to avoid any possible spread of the virus. The letters were constructed to include an introduction to the aged care resident, some general chitchat and encouragement to see the resident through the isolation period. A Club member coordinated the collation of the letters and printing them on colourful letterhead. The Club held ‘laminating’ evenings and the printing and laminating material was donated by a local business and the business of a Club member.
Once the 400-plus letters and drawings were laminated, Club members met with the nursing staff of Gisborne Oaks, Warrina Aged Care, Bupa Woodend and Kyneton, and RM Beggs Kyneton to hand over the materials.
The project was extremely well received by residents and staff of the aged care facilities, their families and the wider community. For such a low cost, the project had far reaching impact for the Macedon Ranges community, including Club members.
Rotary Macedon Ranges received a District 9800 Community Award for this wonderful project that made such a difference to so many in their community.