WERN

Western Emergency Relief Network (WERN)

Western Emergency Relief Network (WERN) provides emergency relief and assistance through supplying good quality second hand furniture, electronic and whitegoods, to people in need due to homelessness, mental health, family violence, refugee, fire or flood situations.

The people assisted are those who have been identified to have an urgent need for material aid as a result of experiencing trauma or loss, where they have a need to move or perhaps cannot afford basic living requirements, where they are struggling to buy essentials such as furniture and other household goods.

WERN manages a group of volunteers responsible for the collection, assessment, the repair and cleaning of donated goods. WERN facilitates the supply of all appropriate items to be available to individuals and families in need through our network of Member Welfare Agencies. With over 40 partner agencies and 220 accredited Case managers the WERN program is making a marked difference on the ground in assisting those in crisis.

Rotary Clubs from Bacchus Marsh, Caroline Springs, Essendon North, Hoppers Crossing, Melton Valley, Werribee, Wyndham and Yarraville are taking a lead role in managing WERN to provide this service. The Program currently operates from a warehouse located in West Footscray. WERN is on target to having assisted over 600 families within our own community since inception.