Call for Hunter people to help Lifeline clothe flood affected people in Northern NSW

Lifeline is calling for Hunter people’s support as it rallies to help people in the Northern Rivers deal with the physical and mental health impacts of the devastating floods that hit the region this week.

CEO of Lifeline Hunter and Lifeline Northern Rivers, Rob Sams, has secured extra space next to Lifeline Hunter’s warehouse at 27/54 Clyde Street Hamilton North where people can drop off clothes and accessories to be distributed to people in Lismore and surrounding towns. He said Lifeline usually accepts clothing donations to sell in its shops to fund its services but this time it will distribute directly to people in partnership with those supporting Lismore and surrounding towns in recovery.

“People have lost everything; putting clothes on people’s backs will help them to go about their daily lives. It is a small but practical gesture for people as they clean up and try to move forward,”
Robert Sams, CEO Lifeline Direct

Despite its own losses in the floods, Lifeline is urging people who are struggling to cope with the impacts of the disaster to call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

“On top of drought, bushfires and the impacts of COVID-19, these floods may push some people to breaking point but Lifeline is here to offer hope and support.”

“It is important that people do not suffer in silence - together we can get through this.”

In Lismore, Lifeline has lost its 13 11 14 call centre, its warehouse and its three Lifeline shops.

“We moved everything from one shop to the warehouse prior to the floods but we didn’t expect the flooding to be so severe – we have lost everything, including our ute and trucks.”

“Other Lifeline call centres including the Hunter and Central Coast will pick up the 13 11 14 calls which will be vital for people in the coming months.”

Lifeline centres in the Hunter, Central Coast, New England and Northern Rivers have been jointly managed for more than a year to better co-ordinate local services and reduce administration costs.

The Hunter warehouse will be open from 8am to 4pm from Monday to Saturday - 27/54 Clyde Street Hamilton North.

Anyone wishing to volunteer to help receive and sort items can call Lifeline Hunter on 1300 152 854. People wishing to donate to Lifeline as it rebuilds its services in Lismore can do so at NorthernNSW.lifeline.org.au or at any Lifeline shop.