Everybody needs good neighbours

A POSTCARD is the latest addition to a City of Greater Geelong initiative encouraging residents to check in on their neighbours, while maintaining social distancing.
The card is designed to initiate connections between neighbours allowing them to provide support and is available as part of the city’s Healthy at Home toolkit which launched in May.
Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said the addition is reflective of the community spirit demonstrated throughout the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent restrictions.
“One of the positives that has come out of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has been our desire to help others, whether that be via an organised volunteer group or simply looking out for a neighbour.
“Our community spirit has remained strong, even in times of being apart. I encourage residents to make use of the new greeting card, or let it inspire an act of kindness towards someone who might need a helping hand.”
Interested residents are asked to complete the details prompted by the postcard and drop it into the letterbox of someone who might need a helping hand with tasks like groceries, watering the garden or putting out the bins.
The council’s community health, wellbeing and safety chair Cr Pat Murnane said they hope
giving and receiving postcards will be a rewarding experience.
“The city’s Healthy at Home toolkit initiative continues to be a reliable source of varied ideas that support healthy lifestyles at home.
“Sending a postcard could really brighten someone’s day, who is experiencing poor health and wellbeing caused by isolation.”
The toolkit also includes a number of resources and tips that can be easily adopted at home, including in times of isolation.
The initiative focuses on four key priority areas: mental health and wellbeing, food and nutrition, physical activity and positive and respectful relationships.
Resources can be found online and will soon be made available in printed booklets with the card now being delivered to 30,000 homes
throughout Geelong.
The city hopes this latest resource will help to spark a wave of kindness across the community.
For more information head to geelongaustralia.com.au/healthyathome or register for a print version by phoning 5272 5272.