How important is it to us take care of our own when they are in need?
It is disheartening to hear this week that there is no state government funding to keep the Rae Burgess Centre open beyond the end of this year.
At the time of going to press, the Tribune learnt that a meeting is planned for today between Minister Pru Goward, Yass Valley Mayor Nic Carmody and Mission Australia to discuss a way forward.
While it’s heartening to know that the issue is being looked into, our understanding is that Mission Australia will not take over all of the services currently provided by the Rae Burgess Centre.
Any reduction in services is unacceptable and will leave our most vulnerable community members in even more difficult circumstances.
So what is the way forward? Do we allow our services to be reduced because of lack of state funding?
Security is largely an allusion. We think that if we have a home, money in the bank, superannuation or shares, etc, that we are immune. Many of those who find themselves struggling to live once thought they were safe. A series of unfortunate events - family breakdown, job loss, sickness - can leave a 'comfortable' household in a fragile position very quickly.
When we look after those who are going through a difficult patch, we are really looking after ourselves.
So, if there is no government money to keep the Rae Burgess Centre operating, can we find another way?
