Supporting volunteering in Parramatta

Around 1,300 volunteers in the electorate of Parramatta have benefited from more than $91,000 in Rudd Government funding to purchase much-needed equipment and help cover the cost of petrol.

The Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, and the Member for Parramatta, Julie Owens, today visited ComputerPals for Seniors in Wentworthville, one of 25 local organisations that received funding under the Volunteer Grants 2009 initiative.

Under the initiative, one-off grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 are provided to non-profit organisations.

ComputerPals for Seniors received $3,700 to purchase two laptop computers, computer software and a large screen monitor to help teach local seniors.

“These new computers and software are being used by the centre’s 28 volunteer trainers to teach local seniors how to use a range of computer programs, including photographic and design programs,” Ms Macklin said.

“The centre, which has been operating for the last three years, is open every day.

“Each week around 130 local seniors come in to learn with a volunteer trainer. Popular classes include how to use email to stay in touch with grandchildren, how to make free online phone calls, how to find knitting patterns and recipes online, and how to organise digital photo collections.”

Ms Owens welcomed the Rudd Government’s continued investment in Parramatta.

“More than $91,000 has been delivered in Parramatta to help our volunteers and provide new equipment such as computers, computer software, barbeques, refrigerators, cameras and overhead projectors. It will also help cover the petrol costs associated with volunteering for many local people,” Ms Owens said.

“It’s a win for our community, our volunteers and for local organisations.”

Ms Owens said the Rudd Government valued the enormous contribution volunteers make in the local community.

Nationally, the Rudd Government has delivered more than $21 million under the Volunteer Grants 2009 initiative, with over $7 million for more than 2,230 community organisations across New South Wales.