Mercy Health’s Aged Care Residents Support Bushfire Relief

The unprecedented 2019/2020 bushfire crisis has prompted an outpouring of generosity from Australians across the country, including residents at Mercy Health's residential aged care homes.

From a summer barbecue fundraiser to knitting pouches for displaced wildlife, residents and staff have been giving back to support the bushfire relief.

Residents at both Mercy Place Warrnambool in Victoria’s south west and Mercy Place Wyndham in Melbourne’s western suburbs have been knitting pouches for WIRES, a wildlife rescue organisation, to help support the millions of animals that have been injured in the fires.

Mercy Place Warrnambool Service Manager Helen Paris said the home’s knitting group was eager to help when they first heard about the fires and the threat facing Australia’s native wildlife.

“We have some incredible knitters at our home who love getting together to socialise and knit,” Mrs Paris said.
“The residents have put their usual projects on hold to knit as many pouches as possible.”

In Victoria’s south west, Mercy Place Colac will be holding a barbecue fundraiser to support Victoria’s Country Fire Authority (CFA) in its tireless efforts in combating fires around the state.

Mercy Place Colac Service Manager Toni Cuthbertson said the home was inspired to act after seeing a generous donation from resident Jean Howard.

“Jean sadly lost her home due to a bushfire 75 years ago and knows all too well the hardships people around the country are facing right now. After hearing about the fires, she donated immediately,” Ms Cuthbertson said.

“Residents and staff at Mercy Place Colac are hosting a fundraiser where all proceeds will go to the CFA. We’re expecting a really great turnout.”

Mercy Health acknowledges the hard work and dedication of volunteers and fire fighters from across the country and wish to thank those who are risking their own lives to save others.

Their bravery and perseverance in the face of fear is truly heroic and Mercy Health wishes to encourage all to donate to the Australian Red Cross and St Vincent De Paul Society’s bushfire appeal.

Find out more about Mercy Health's aged care homes.