Abe Ropitini is a Māori man of Ngāti Kahungunu and Ngāti Maniapoto iwi, with ancestral links to Palawa Country, Tasmania. He has a background in medical anthropology and international development, and has managed projects across health, disability, aged care, reconciliation, and digital transformation. Abe is the Executive Director of Population Health at the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO).
The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) is working in partnership with Members to aid Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities who have been impacted by the devastating flood events across the state. The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) is working in partnership with Members to aid Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities who have been impacted by the devastating flood events across the state. From Tuesday 18 October, the VACCHO roller doors were open for donations of items of good quality clothing, blankets, non-perishable food items, and toiletries. In particular, VACCHO is appealing for donations of children’s clothing, and warm clothing including puffer jackets and windbreakers. Donations can be made at the VACCHO office at 17-23 Sackville Street Collingwood between 9am and 4pm.
The donations will be distributed to Communities in flood affected areas across Victoria in collaboration with Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Organisations. VACCHO acting CEO Jim O’Shea says that good quality donated items will be greatly appreciated and will make a significant difference to numerous communities that have been devasted by floods across the state.“The flooding events have been rapid – and had a major impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across the state.” “As a community we need to stand up and stand together to support one another during these really challenging times.” “We know that there is a great need for clothing – particularly children’s clothing, non-perishable foods, and toiletries right across the state.”
If you are unable to attend the VACCHO office between 9am and 4pm please contact us via Enquiries@vaccho.org.au or send us a message on Facebook and our team will do their best to assist. An emergency flood relief payment is available for those whose homes have been impacted by flooding to assist with shelter, food, clothing and medicine. You can apply for the payment online via the Victorian Emergency relief assistance payment website here. Keep updated by downloading the VicEmergency App or follow VicEmergency on Facebook.