Geelong jobseekers living with disability have received a heartwarming boost as winter tightens its grip on the region.
Local service provider genU’s disability employment service MatchWorks hosted its first Winter Warmth Community Care Packs Program in June, providing essential items to jobseekers in need as part of one of its All About You Days.
Driven by Deakin University placement students, the Winter Warmth program saw 20 local businesses donate food vouchers, blankets, jackets, beanies and personal care items.
The Deakin students used the donated goods to create more than 50 care packs for MatchWorks participants.
Deakin University social work placement student Curley Rukweza said she had enjoyed organising the Winter Warmth Community Care Pack Program and gained a confidence boost from liaising with potential sponsors.
“The most rewarding part of the program was the level of gratitude shown by the community,” Curley said.
“I feel good about the positive feedback we received from participants today, who really appreciated everything. Knowing I’ve been able to help people makes my whole placement worth it.”
Participant Judith described the Winter Warmth initiative as “awesome”, praising the MatchWorks team for hosting such a positive and supportive event.
“I was surprised by what was being offered; I’ve never seen anything like this before,” she said.
“I got some warm work socks and the fruit and veg won’t go astray.
“Everyone at the MatchWorks office is always very friendly and they make you feel welcome here, no matter who you are.”
