MEMBERS IMPRESSED BY WORK OF WERN
We've heard a fair bit about WERN over the last year or two but, until you see what it does, it's difficult to really understand the positive impact it has on so many needy people.
Members visited the WERN warehouse in Footscray last Tuesday and were provided with a presentation and tour by PDG Ross Butterworth who helps run the business along with other Rotarians and volunteers.
WERN stands for Western Emergency Relief Network. It is a replica of the same organisation in the east of Melbourne (EERN) which was established 22 years ago. The key stakeholders of WERN include the following Rotary clubs:
Bacchus Marsh, Caroline Springs, Essendon North, Hoppers Crossing, Melton Valley, Werribee, Wyndham and Yarraville
The warehouse is chock-a-block full of second-hand goods that are distributed to families who could not survive without this support. The recipients are referred from local welfare agencies. They are generally the victims of mental health problems, drug addiction and domestic violence. There are also many refugees who make use of the service. In it's short history, WERN has been successful in helping 600 families in the western region.
The key role that WERN plays is:
- Storage and management of household items
- Delivery of items to the relevant home
- Collection of donated goods
WERN is always looking for white goods like fridges, washing machines and microwaves. But, with winter upon us, they are now in desperate need of bedding and manchester such as blankets, doonas, sheets, pillow slips, tea towels, towels and face washers. They are asking for our assistance to either supply these much-needed items or to share this message with family and friends who may be able to help.
Once every 10 weeks, a member-Rotary club is scheduled to volunteer 3 hours of time on a Saturday morning to deliver goods. We are now on this roster.