Lifeline Shop – Castle Hill
Lifeline’s first Western Sydney shop opened in Castle Hill last month (November) and is the 8th LifeLine store in Sydney.
Brad Hannagan, CEO Lifeline Macarthur and Western Sydney said the Lifeline Shops were vital to help fund the 24-hour LifeLine telephone crisis support service and other LifeLine programs.
LifeLine receives 2500 calls from Australians in crisis every day. “With the catastrophic natural disasters and a global pandemic impacting not only on our overall welfare but our mental health, Australians are turning to Lifeline more than ever,” Mr Hannagan said.
“We’ve received a 25% increase in calls this year – that’s a call every 30 seconds. Lifeline Shops provide vital income to assist us in supporting our local community in not having to face their darkest moments alone.” he said.
Hills Shire Mayor Michelle Byrne performed the official opening and said: “Lifeline is a true beacon of hope for anyone in the community to reach to and we encourage anyone who is feeling distressed, sad or worried in any way to make contact by calling 13 11 14.”
“I know the Hills community will embrace and support the shop as much as possible to ensure those most in need are able to access crucial Lifeline services such as crisis support, financial counselling and support groups.”
Mr Hannagan said: “We are very excited to be involved with the Hills Shire community and look forward to reaching out and providing support and assistance. I would also like to thank our new volunteers who have made the opening so special and use the opportunity to encourage others to consider volunteering for Lifeline. Volunteers are intrinsic to our operations and we could not do what we do without them.”
Lifeline Shop Castle Hill is located at 11/19 Victoria Avenue, Castle Hill (above Vinnies) and is open from Monday to Saturday. Check www.lifelinemacarthur. com.au for opening hours.
Lifeline is Australia’s leading suicide prevention service, operating the 13 11 14 telephone line around the nation. The service expects to respond to over one million calls a year. To donate to Lifeline, visit www.lifelinemacarthur.org.au.
