Forbes Shire residents and businesses are now able to access a COVID-19 Local Assistance hotline through Forbes Shire Council by calling 02 6850 2393. The hotline number is available from Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 5pm.
The service will provide answers to queries about services and advice available to residents during this pandemic.
“This is the biggest health challenge Forbes has ever endured and it isn’t just impacting individuals, but businesses as well,” says Forbes Shire Mayor, Phyllis Miller OAM. “We want to help all residents to ensure they are led to the correct information regarding their situation. With so many sources available for people it is hard to know what services are available to whom.”
“The Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) has met twice already to work through the future challenges the local community shall endure in the coming months. They identified that there are vulnerable members of the community in our area and LEMC wishes to support them and their challenges. This may include but not limited to food, medical supplies and essentials.”
A customer service officer will lead callers to the relevant government departments or charity service groups that are providing assistance throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The services available include;
• Groceries
• Prescription medical supplies
• Prepared meals
• Financial counselling
• Parenting services
• Men’s support
• Accommodation/Homelessness and domestic violence
• Men’s Health Early Intervention
• Financial assistance available from the State and Federal Government
“A lot of people feel they have lost trust in the Internet and random phone calls promising to help,” says Mayor Miller. “Residents know they can trust Forbes Shire Council; they have the best interests of residents at heart.”