Volunteers in Melbourne and parts of regional Victoria provide practical support to people living with HIV - e.g. helping with shopping.
HIV Positive Services
Community Support Services
Community Support originated in 1983 as a rapid response to the urgent needs of people living with HIV. Building on more than 40 years of staff and volunteer support in this area, Thorne Harbour is able to assist people living with HIV at home and in the community. In recent years there has been increasing demand for practical support from those ageing with HIV and those with multiple health issues.
Community Support's HIV Services:
VOLUNTEER SUPPORT
MEDICAL TRANSPORT
Regular attendance at medical appointments is important for people living with HIV. Volunteer transport to medical appointments is available for people who do not have other transport options.
NUTRITION SUPPORT
Regular, healthy eating helps people stay well. Tuckerbag Meals is a joint project of Community Support and the Royal District Nursing Service to improve access to nutritious food for people living with HIV, particularly for more isolated clients. It provides short-term deliveries of fresh fruit and vegetables, free-range eggs, recipes and ingredients, and basic cooking equipment.
PEER SUPPORT
HIV-positive Community Support staff and volunteers provide one-on-one support and information for people living with HIV who would like to talk to someone who understands their situation. Anyone living with HIV may benefit from peer support, particularly those recently diagnosed.
For more information call (03) 9863 0426 or email support@vac.org.au
HOME CARE
Community Support provides a range of services to enable clients to maintain their independence and to live in their own homes for longer than would otherwise be possible. VAC’s Home Care team has trained staff who can assist with services such as house cleaning, shopping and cooking. This service is designed for people with higher needs that cannot be met by council services alone.
For more information call (03) 9863 0430 or email homecare@vac.org.au