Free event to shine a light on loneliness

AN ARMSTRONG Creek resident is leading the charge in highlighting loneliness across the region at a community event in Grovedale later this month.

Geelong local and national research and community education manager of helpline service Friends for Good, Eleisha Casañas, said the Geelong community is invited to the Friends for Good Community Day at Grovedale United Services Memorial Hall on March 23.

“It going to be an great day, there’s going to be a lot going on.

“We have over 1,000 items available on the day for purchase, so there’s something for everyone there.

“There will be heaps to do for kids, so it’s the perfect stop for families too, there’s something for everyone to do as we raise funds for an important service.”

The fundraising event will start with a pre-loved and second-hand clothing sale with all items going for $5 or five items for $20.

Guests can also take part in raffles, peruse an assortment of food trucks and market stalls, while listening to music and entertainment.

The proceeds from the event will go to support FriendLine, a free phone service for people across Australia experiencing loneliness or social isolation.

Ms Casañas said nine out of 10 people feel lonely at some point in their lives and loneliness was associated with a 26 per cent increased likelihood of early mortality.

“FriendLine provides a listening ear and a friendly chat.

“Our volunteers are on the phones seven days a week and make a significant difference in the lives of our callers, but the service is under threat of closing due to lack of funds.”

The event will run from 9am to 3pm. Entry is free.

For more information on Friends for Good, head to friendsforgood.org.au.