Why Your EOFY Donation Matters: Supporting vulnerable people and people experiencing crisis with the Irish support Agency
Your support can strengthen and improve lives and communities. We are so grateful for every donation; the generosity of people like you helps us continue our vital work. With the end of the financial year fast approaching, we invite you to consider making a tax-deductible donation to the Irish Support Agency NSW.
Your donation to the Irish Support Agency can significantly impact the lives of people experiencing poverty, homelessness, domestic violence and mental health crisis. With a focus on community development, we work to provide access to essential services such as mental health care, aged care and homelessness support.
When you donate to the Irish Support Agency, you not only help those most vulnerable and in need, but you can also receive a tax deduction for your charitable donation. As an Australian tax-exempt charity, all donations over $2 are tax-deductible. This means that you can reduce your taxable income, while making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
THE NEED for the ISA
The ISA was established in 1995 to act as a safety net for the Irish community in NSW who, during times of vulnerability and distress, found themselves far removed from their traditional support network of friends and family. Since its formation, the Agency has grown to meet significant demand, adapting constantly to the changing needs of our community.
Bad luck can happen to anyone and sufficient bad luck can be devastating. Health, work, legal or financial issues can feel overwhelming when trying to resolve alone, particularly if unfamiliar with how to navigate Australian systems or community support networks. Whether it is a friendly voice, a helping hand, or something more tangible, the ISA is available to assist in whatever manner we can.
As awareness of the organisation grows, there is an increasing number of Irish Australians who are seeking support from the Agency across all levels of service.
Traditionally a typical case might involve a support following a death, workplace accident or unemployment, etc. but in recent years, we have witnessed a significant increase in the number of clients seeking our help for mental health issues whether that be anxiety/depression, psychoses, or addiction issues. Domestic and family violence has also been to the fore, with this area notably exacerbated by the challenges of the global pandemic.
The ISA, however, is not just for those experiencing difficulties. With prevention being better than a cure, many of our Outreach Events seek to promote a sense of connection, social inclusion, and health and wellbeing programs with regular information sessions to give people the tools they need to thrive here.
From January - December 2023, the ISA assisted 403 clients. That is 403 individuals who have sought solace and support from our organisation, the significance of this work cannot be underestimated.
Our stories
Johnnie came to our attention in September 2021 after a referral from his good friend.
Johnnie had experienced a stroke and was hospitalised in Blacktown, none of his friends able to get to him to offer support.
During this time the ISA liaised with the care team to make plans for his discharge and was able to offer a letter of support for his friend John Doherty to travel to visit him at home during the height of the COVID restrictions.
It became clear to us that Johnnie’s living arrangements were far from ideal, with restricted phone coverage leaving him socially isolated and, without being able to drive, having limited access to shops.
Our Outreach team supported him with medical appointments, assisting him to access aged care support and in researching and finding a new home. Having only recently retired from work, social interaction was a really important aspect of the search.
After exploring more than a few options, Katerina and Johnnie visited a retirement village in Western Sydney, which thankfully meets all his needs, and he’s now planning a move in March.
We wish him many happy years in his new home!
In October 1996, the Irish Support Agency purchased a number of burial plots for members of the Irish Community in Rookwood Cemetery. The plots were purchased for those who had no other means of being laid to rest.
In this way, people can be laid to rest with their fellow country people, in peace.
To date, 34 people are interred here.
Another example of how we put your generous donations to use.
Katerina, our Outreach Worker, and members of our committee regularly visit the graves, lay flowers and pay our respects.
Le chéile i gcónaí.
TESTIMONIALS
“After the sad and sudden passing of a very close friend in Sydney at the beginning of 2022, I will be forever thankful to Marian and Katerina for the numerous calls of advice and support offered to me and anyone in need who was close to our friend during this very difficult time, while also contacting our friends family back in Ireland to offer support.I, like many I’m sure in Sydney had not heard of the ISA before, but in our time of need they were there with calls of support and offering to help in any way they could.I cannot speak highly enough about this organisation, the people who help out here and all the great work they do for so many in need.
Thank you so much. ”
“This agency came to our aid at a time of crisis and unforeseen circumstances following my brother’s accident at work in which he sustained serious injuries. The Irish Support Agency was invaluable help and did great work with government agencies in order to facilitate family to fly from Ireland and be with my brother in intensive care. This wasn’t straightforward due to Covid 19 restrictions but the reassurance, help, and assistance from Irish Support Agency were invaluable. Also the after-care and visits to the hospital. I see this agency as a great safety net for families and people in need. I would recommend their services to anyone in need. The service is professional, friendly, efficient and ultimately the team is caring, compassionate, and dedicated. I wish them every success they truly deserve.”