Volunteers support flood-affected residents

Youth With A Mission (YWAM) is working with Townsville City Council, the combined churches and 99.9 Live FM to speak with residents and hear how they are doing and provide information and referrals to support services.

Townsville Local Disaster Management Group Chair Mayor Jenny Hill – who was out with volunteers on the weekend – said the volunteers have played an important role in the recovery.

“The information collected by the YWAM and community volunteers will help flood-affected residents recover by understanding what individuals and families need to get them back on their feet,” Cr Hill said.

“Each resident has a different story and may require specific services to ensure they are able to recover from these unprecedented floods.

“Even the act of going to these homes and spending time with residents to ask how they are coping after the floods can have a powerful positive impact.”

The Lions Club have also supported the initiative by providing lunch for the volunteers every day.

Townsville Local Recovery and Resilience Chair Deputy Mayor Les Walker said YWAM has also opened its doors to people in need.

“YWAM is providing emergency housing and medium-term accommodation for flood-affected residents on Blackwood Street in the city,” Walker said.

“YWAM has also taken in workers who’ve come to Townsville to help with the recovery – and there are still beds available for short-term accommodation.”