Wednesday, 18 October 2023

 Meng Heang TAK (Clarinda) (10:04): This week is Anti-Poverty Week, a great opportunity to acknowledge and reflect on poverty in our community and how it hurts us all and to come together to take action collectively to end it. One group that is doing just that is Make a Difference Dingley Village. For over 30 years Make a Difference have been providing support and services to those in need in our community. They have helped thousands. Every Thursday morning the emergency relief program distributes a host of food parcels, food vouchers and gas and electricity bill contributions from out of the Marcus Road office. Their financial counselling support is also making a huge difference in the lives of many individuals and families. Late last month I was very honoured and proud to visit the office with the former Minister for Consumer Affairs to discuss the amazing work and the results their financial counselling services are delivering, giving people and families a fresh start. It is truly amazing the great work and the sense of community at Make a Difference. I would like to say thank you to the CEO Marion Harriden and chairman Scott Lowther and all the amazing staff and volunteers for their tireless services and commitment to make a difference to those who are vulnerable, facing hardship and experiencing a crisis. I would like to say thank you all.