Springwood Neighbourhood Centre Co-operative Ltd

The Foster Parents Support Network have acquired low cost holiday accommodation for Foster & Kinship Carers. It is a caravan with inside toilet and annexe on Corrimal Beach, north of Woollongong. The rates vary from $250 per week in the Christmas school holidays, through to $120 per week in the June-August period. Mid week rates are cheaper.

The Kinship Care Regional project is currently conducting some research into the needs of kinship carers and available services in the Lithgow area. Depending on the outcome of the research, we may be able to access funding to provide some suport to carers.

NILS is a community based program that assists people on low incomes to purchase essential household items, such as fridges, washing machines, furniture or other appliances without paying interest. A typical NILS loan is for $600-$1,200 and is repaid over 12-18 months.

Two useful legal information websites were recently launched by the NSW Government, focussing on planning for the future and representing yourself in court. Always remember however to consult your private solicitor, Legal Aid, or your local Community Legal centre for legal advice tailored to your specific situation.

Law Assist

Grakca aims to provide a voice for family carers, seeking to share information and act collaboratively on common issues. Grakca also aims to keep the needs of the children living with family members in the forefront of our politicians' minds when debating out of home care issues.