Community Recognition Notice

Mr ANOULACK CHANTHIVONG (Macquarie Fields): — The COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenging time for many in our community, with the need for assistance at record highs.

I would like to acknowledge the wonderful work of not-for-profit organisation, ADRA Macquarie Fields, in providing assistance for local families during this time.

ADRA supplied more than 2000 food hampers and emergency packages to people in need during lockdown, from July 2021 to early October.

A further 200 hampers were provided to people with bridging visas, with around 110 food and sanitary packages supplied to international students.

ADRA recorded 11,400 volunteer hours in 2020/21, down from 12,000 the previous financial year. Yet the distribution of food packages increased from 5,500 in 2019/2020 to 8,580 in 2020/2021, highlighting the increased demand for services.

I commend ADRA for continuing to support our community during this challenging time, and extend my gratitude to Centre Manager Melissa Baleilekutu for her dedication in expanding ADRA's range of services and support.

After close to five years with the organisation, Melissa is bidding ADRA farewell.

I wish Melissa every success on her future endeavours and look forward to the next chapter in ADRA's journey with the Macquarie Fields community.