On Friday, July 19, 2024, Open Hands Community Care celebrated a significant milestone with the grand opening of our new shop located at 318 Ritchie Road, Pallara QLD 4110. The event was graced by the presence of Hon. Leeanne Enoch MP, and representative and Communications Officer from Carinity, Mr. Lee Oliver, all of whom joined us in marking this exciting occasion.

The event commenced at 9:30 am and featured a brief introduction to our expanded shop, a tour of the facility, and an opportunity for attendees to meet and interact with our team and community members with delicious morning put together to celebrate this occasion.

Thanks to the support and collaboration with Carinity, The House of Prayer (THOP) was successfully awarded funds under the Collaborative Community Projects program by Carinity. This funding enabled the purchase of a demountable building, essential for the expansion of our Neighbourhood Marketplace, furthering our mission to serve the community. THOP & OHCC have witnessed firsthand the effects the cost of living crisis has had on members of the community, and our Neighbourhood Marketplace service is helping to reduce the cost of household staples by providing access to discounted foods and groceries – up to 75% of retail price – as well as free food hampers.

The demountable building was purchased in 2023 and constructed and delivered in August of the same year. The community had the opportunity to explore and shop at the new facility, with Senior Pastors offering prayers and blessings on Sunday, July 21, 2024, following the church service.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Carinity and all those who supported this project, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to provide valuable services to our community through this new chapter.

For more information, visit our new shop at 318 Ritchie Road, Pallara QLD 4110, or contact us via email: info@openhandscommunitycare.org.au Or via Phone: 0451 170 420.

We are thrilled to announce that Open Hands Community Care (OHCC) has been awarded a grant from the Queensland Government’s Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) to acquire a brand-new company vehicle!  A heartfelt thank you for our beautiful GWM Haval Jolion!

This Queensland Government funding initiative is pivotal in furthering the vision, mission, and services of OHCC. On one hand, it will enable our team to better support clients and participants through home visitations, transportation, and assistance with their daily needs. On the other hand, it will allow our volunteers to continue performing daily food rescue trips, providing food hampers and free and low-cost groceries to members of our community.

The addition of this vehicle will not only bolster the efficiency of our operations but will also elevate the impact of our services.

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Mena and Jason, the Sales Managers at Westpoint GWM Haval Moorooka, for their terrific service. A special thank you to Bela, Peter, and the team at Intertrade Signs for making the vehicle beautiful with custom vehicle signage.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Queensland Government’s GCBF and our community partners for their invaluable support and unwavering commitment in making this possible.

Sherifaye and Alice are proudly pictured with the new OHCC Haval Jolion vehicle, ready to hit the road safely and in comfort, delivering the mission of OHCC.

Stay tuned for the positive impact this new vehicle will bring to our organisation, the communities, and the participants we engage with.

We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the newly appointed Cr Emily Kim, Councillor for Calamvale Ward, for her recent visit to the Open Hands Community Care site in Pallara. Her tremendous support and kind words of encouragement have truly inspired us. During her visit, we had the opportunity to discuss our shared goals and explore future collaborations aimed at enriching our community.

Cr Kim’s dedication to community service and her visionary approach align perfectly with our mission at Open Hands Community Care (OHCC). Our insightful discussion delved into various avenues for partnership, focusing on growing our charitable initiatives and making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.

As a charity organization, we remain committed to providing essential services, including food relief and community support, to families across South-East Brisbane. With Cr Kim’s support, we are confident in our ability to expand our reach and enhance the quality of our services. Her enthusiasm for community welfare and proactive stance on collaboration have injected new energy into our efforts.

One of the highlights of our meeting was the shared vision of creating a more cohesive and supportive community. Cr Kim emphasized the importance of local engagement and the critical role that organizations like OHCC play in fostering a sense of belonging and support. We discussed several upcoming initiatives, including expanding our neighborhood marketplace and introducing new programs to support families in need.

Cr Kim’s involvement signals a promising future for OHCC and the broader Calamvale Ward. We are particularly excited about the potential to innovate and implement new strategies that will directly benefit our participants. By leveraging Cr Kim’s insights and resources, we can develop more effective support systems and ensure that our services reach those who need them most.

The community’s response to these collaborative efforts has been overwhelmingly positive. We have seen an increase in local support and a growing interest in our programs. This partnership with Cr Kim is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with a shared purpose.

As we move forward, we remain committed to transparency and inclusivity in all our actions. We will continue to work closely with Cr Kim and other community stakeholders to ensure that our initiatives are aligned with the needs and aspirations of the people we serve. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient community.

In closing, we extend our deepest appreciation to Cr Emily Kim for her unwavering support and belief in our mission. We look forward to the exciting journey ahead and are eager to make a lasting positive impact on our community. By working together, we can create meaningful change and improve the lives of countless families in Calamvale and beyond.

Thank you, Cr Kim, for joining us in this endeavor. Let’s continue to strive for excellence and make a difference, one step at a time.

Date: March 9, 2024

Open Hands Community Care (OHCC) proudly embraced the spirit of International Women’s Day, commemorating the remarkable achievements and resilience of women worldwide. On this special occasion, OHCC celebrated the inspiring women who contribute significantly to the organization’s mission every day.

The day commenced with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the incredible strength, resilience, and accomplishments of women globally. At OHCC, we recognize the privilege of working alongside inspiring women who leave an indelible mark through their dedication and impact.

Two prominent OHCC figures, Co-Founder Mariatu and Operations Lead Pule, had the honour of attending a meaningful Women’s Breakfast hosted by Leeanne Enoch MP. This gathering brought together influential women from Murri School, Algester State School, Pallara Special School, Kids Magik, and Girls Guide. The morning was characterized by inspiration, connection, and shared stories, fostering a sense of community and empowerment.

Certificates of Appreciation were presented during this heart-warming event, recognizing the invaluable contributions of the attendees. The breakfast became a platform for women to share their experiences and celebrate their strengths and achievements collectively.

As OHCC embraced the theme of Queensland Women’s Week (QWW), our team had the privilege of participating in the empowering celebrations of women and girls throughout Queensland. The week served as a testament to the remarkable successes and contributions of women across the region.

OHCC stands proudly as part of this empowering initiative, championing the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of women within our community and beyond. The organization remains committed to fostering a culture that uplifts, supports, and celebrates the achievements of all women.

The Women’s Breakfast and QWW celebrations underscore OHCC’s dedication to building a supportive and inclusive environment. The shared spirit of sisterhood, evident in the connections formed and stories exchanged, continues to inspire the OHCC community.

As the week unfolded, OHCC emphasized the importance of ongoing support, recognition, and celebration of women’s achievements. The organization remains committed to fostering an environment where women can thrive, empowering each other to reach new heights.

The essence of International Women’s Day, the Women’s Breakfast, and Queensland Women’s Week resonates with OHCC’s core values—equality, empowerment, and community. Here’s to the uplifting spirit of sisterhood and the ongoing commitment to celebrating the strength and achievements of all women.

Cheers to the women who shape our world and the collective journey towards equality, empowerment, and support!

#OHCC #InternationalWomensDay #IWD2024 #WomensBreakfast #QueenslandWomensWeek #QWW2024 #CountHerIn #EmpowerWomen #CommunityUnity #InspiringWomen #WomenSupportingWomen #EqualityForAll

Check out our Facebook for more images from our Women’s Breakfast

Date: March 4, 2024

On the 1st of March 2024, the Open Hands Community Care team had the honor of attending the Brisbane Disability Connection Expo 2024, hosted by Developing Australian Communities at the prestigious Brisbane Entertainment Centre. The event was a profound showcase of the incredible efforts and services dedicated to uplifting individuals with disabilities and their families.

Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the expo, our team had the opportunity to connect with outstanding Disability Support Services that are making a remarkable impact in the community. The commitment and dedication exhibited by these services, including Aspire Hub, Anchored Care, and Empower Healthcare, resonated deeply with our mission at Open Hands Community Care.

Witnessing the array of support, resources, and guidance provided by these organizations emphasized the transformative power of disability support services. It was truly inspiring to observe the positive influence these services can have on the lives of individuals and their families, fostering a sense of empowerment, independence, and inclusion.

At Open Hands Community Care, we are driven by a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. The expo served as a valuable opportunity for us to explore and learn from the best practices of other organizations, reinforcing our dedication to excellence in disability support services.

As we continue to grow and evolve, our aspiration is to build upon these connections and expand our support and services to individuals and families who need it the most. Our mission at Open Hands Community Care is rooted in the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to live a life abundantly, filled with support, care, and meaningful connections.

The expo was not only a platform for showcasing existing services but also an avenue for collaboration and partnerships. The collaborative spirit exhibited by organizations like Aspire Hub, Anchored Care, and Empower Healthcare reflects the shared goal of creating a network of support that truly transforms lives.

In line with our commitment to transparency, collaboration, and innovation, Open Hands Community Care will continue to explore new avenues for growth and improvement. We are grateful for the valuable insights gained from the Brisbane Disability Connection Expo 2024 and look forward to applying these learnings in our ongoing efforts to provide exceptional support services.

As we express our gratitude to the expo organizers, fellow support services, and the wider community, we extend an invitation to all those in need of support to join hands with Open Hands Community Care. Together, let us build a future where everyone can experience life abundantly.

#OHCC #BrisbaneDisabilityExpo2024 #OHCCares #Connections #NDISSupports #CollaborationAndPartnerships #LifeAbundantly

Date: March 1, 2024

In the spirit of unity and friendship, February became a month of joyous celebrations at Open Hands Community Care (OHCC) as we came together for our Staff and Volunteer’s Post-Christmas festivities. This heartwarming occasion served as a much-needed regroup for our dedicated team, providing a platform for both new and familiar faces to connect and celebrate.

The atmosphere was electric with laughter and shared moments as our team reveled in the festivities. It was a day marked by a sense of togetherness, where bonds were strengthened, and friendships were forged. The event not only highlighted the commitment of our team but also emphasized the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive community within OHCC.

One of the bittersweet moments of the day was bidding pre-goodbyes to our beloved Managing Director, Sherifaye Kagbo. Sherifaye, who has been an integral part of the OHCC family, is gradually winding down for her maternity leave. As we extend our warmest wishes and congratulations to her and Robert, the impending addition to the OHCC family fills our hearts with excitement and anticipation.

The day’s festivities were a reflection of the positive and collaborative spirit that defines OHCC. Our team, comprising passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those we serve, took a moment to celebrate achievements, share stories, and express gratitude for the collective efforts that make OHCC a remarkable community.

The occasion was not just about the festivities; it was about acknowledging the value each team member brings to OHCC and recognizing the synergy that propels us forward. In the midst of laughter and joy, there was a sense of appreciation for the diversity of talents and perspectives that contribute to the success of our organization.

As we bid farewell to February, the memories of this special celebration will linger, serving as a reminder of the strength that lies in unity. OHCC remains committed to fostering a workplace culture that not only values professional excellence but also prioritizes the well-being and happiness of our team members.

Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of the newest member to the OHCC family, knowing that this addition will bring immeasurable joy and inspiration to our community. The legacy of warmth, compassion, and dedication that Sherifaye leaves behind will undoubtedly continue to guide OHCC as we navigate the path ahead.

In the spirit of unity and with hearts full of appreciation, we express gratitude to our team, volunteers, and especially to Sherifaye Kagbo for her outstanding contributions. Open Hands Community Care thrives because of the collective efforts of our incredible team, and together, we look forward to creating more moments of celebration, growth, and shared success.

Here’s to a future filled with continued camaraderie and the unwavering spirit of Open Hands Community Care!

 

#OHCC #Celebrations #TeamSpirit #CommunityLove #MaternityLeave #SharedSuccess

What an incredible way to conclude our 2023 – true to the Open Hands spirit! We kicked off December with our remarkable ‘Leave No One Behind This Christmas’ initiative, staying true to our mission of making a difference in the lives of those facing hardships.

Thanks to the generous support from the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust – Ratepayers Grant Round, Open Hands is distributing over 500+ food relief hampers. This initiative has provided essential food and groceries to thousands of households this Christmas. The initiative continues until Fri, 22nd December, and our volunteers have done an outstanding job spreading love and support throughout the wider community this December.

But we didn’t stop there!

On Sunday, 3rd December, our team seized the fantastic opportunity to attend not just one, but two incredible events. One half of the team had an absolute blast at the Souths Sports Club’s Spectacular Funday, complete with a breathtaking fireworks display! Simultaneously, the other half of the team had an equally amazing time at Calamvale District Park for Christmas in the Park. The joy of witnessing countless smiles and connecting with so many wonderful people from the community was truly heartwarming.

A special thank you goes to Cr Angela Owen – Councillor for Calamvale Ward & the Acacia Ridge Souths Sports Club for the gracious invitation. Our team thoroughly enjoyed the delightful experience!

 

We didn’t just stop at that! Here at Open Hands, our participants are more than just individuals—we consider them family and include them in all our endeavours. As part of our festive celebrations, we organised a delightful Christmas Lunch welcoming participants, carers, and families. The day was brimming with joy as our incredible participant families connected and engaged with one another. Witnessing everyone come together for lunch, enjoying themselves, was truly heart-warming.

As the year closes, we look forward to ending with a bang, with our Community Christmas Carols, where we will be distributing to the kids, enjoying food, carols, decorations, gifts, and each other’s company. Events like these play a significant role in eradicating loneliness, fostering social interaction, nurturing self-esteem and improving metal health.

A special thank you goes to Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust – Christmas Grant Round, for help making these events possible for our community members, participants, carers, and families.

We’re eagerly looking forward to hosting more of such events in the upcoming New Year.

Here’s to an exciting 2024 ahead!

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for all the latest updates!

Brisbane City Hall, a historical and iconic landmark in the heart of the city, recently played host to a momentous occasion. On Thursday, 26th October 2023, Open Hands Community Care (OHCC) Co-founder, Mariatu and MD, Sherifaye, had the privilege of visiting this grand venue as recipients of the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust – Ratepayers Grant Round.

 

As an organisation dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those facing challen

 

ging circumstances, we will continue our cherished tradition this year with the announcement of our “Leave No One Behind This Christmas”. The grant awarded to OHCC will be used to provide essential Food Relief through hampers to individuals and families within the community who are in need, especially during the crucial festive period.

This year, the Food Hamper Drive will be held in December, with the theme “Leave No One Behind This Christmas.” The theme emphasises the importance of ensuring that everyone in the community has consistent access to nutritious food during the holiday season, regardless of their circumstances.

This initiative embodies the spirit of giving, compassion, and unity. It underscores the collective effort to ensure that no

 

one is left behind, and that every individual has the opportunity to celebrate the holiday season with the joy and nourishment that it brings.

OHCC and its supporters extend their heartfelt thanks to the generous ratepayers who continue to support charitable endeavours like this. We also express our gratitude to the Chair and Brisbane Mayoress, Nina Schrinner, the Brisbane Lord Mayor, and all the dedicated trustees and ambassadors for their incredible generosity. The support from the Ratepayers of Brisbane and the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Trust has been instrumental in making this initiative a reality.

As the holiday season approaches, we eagerly anticipate more details about the Food Hamper Drive and the positive impact it will have on the Brisbane community. Let’s come together to make this Christmas a time of warmth, compassion, and inclusivity, leaving no one behind.

Stay tuned for updates and consider how you can contribute to this heartwarming cause.

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What an eventful month it has been for us at OHCC!

Our team has been immersed in a whirlwind of exciting events. We kicked off the month by attending our very first Brisbane Disability Expo as a registered NDIS Disability Provider, held Friday, 13th October 2023.

This expo is a significant event in the disability services calendar, offering a distinct platform for Open Hands and other providers and services to engage with the community and demonstrate their dedication to empowering individuals with disabilities. Held at the Royal International Convention Centre, our team engaged with diverse audiences, including individuals with disabilities, their families, caregivers, support workers, and fellow providers and services.

During this event, our team engaged in insightful discussions, shared informative materials, and had the opportunity to learn, equipping OHCC to better support both new and existing NDIS participants and their loved ones on their journey.

Open Hands Community Care is enthusiastic and anticipates being part of next year’s Brisbane Disability Expo as an Exhibitor / Sponsor. We eagerly look forward to connecting with the community to further OHCC’s mission of enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, one life at a time!

The very next day, Saturday, 14th October, we had the privilege of actively participating in the Pasifika & Māori Health & Wellbeing Strategy Workshop, an Australian Government initiative organised by the Primary Health Network (PHN). These workshops play a pivotal role in addressing the distinctive health and wellbeing needs of Pasifika and Māori communities in Queensland.

Engaging in these workshops brings about several advantages for organisations like Open Hands Community Care, such as:

Contribution to Community Wellbeing: By actively participating in discussions and strategies, we can actively contribute to the creation of initiatives tailored to the specific needs and challenges faced by Pasifika and Māori communities.

Collaboration: These workshops typically bring together diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare providers, community organisations, and community members. This collaborative approach can result in more comprehensive and effective strategies.

Cultural Competency: Understanding the cultural intricacies and values of Pasifika and Māori communities is crucial for delivering culturally competent care. These workshops serve as a platform for learning and sharing insights in this regard.

Policy Influence: Active participation in such events can exert influence on policies that are more attuned to the unique requirements of these communities.

Network Building: These workshops provide an opportunity to connect with other like-minded organizations and individuals who share a commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of Pasifika and Māori populations.

Education and Awareness: Such workshops often include educational sessions and discussions on pertinent topics, which can broaden our knowledge and awareness about the challenges and opportunities in this field.

Our commitment to sharing our organisation’s experiences from these events and workshops with our audience and community members remains steadfast. We are continually growing and learning from the experiences of others. These kind of active participation leads to positive outcomes for both OHCC and the communities we serve. We look forward to actively participating in the 2024 Community Workshops and being a part of change needed for our communities to Flourish and Thrive.

In a world that often prioritises physical health, Mental Health Week serves as a crucial reminder to focus on our emotional well-being. Mental health is an essential component of our overall wellness, and it deserves just as much attention and care as our physical health. Before diving into ways to celebrate Mental Health Week, it’s important to understand what mental health truly encompasses.

Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, influencing our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.

At Open Hands Community Care, we are always taking steps to maintain not only our physical health, but ensuring to always prioritise our mental health. We do this by checking in with our colleagues on a daily basis and encouraging open communication. We also ensure we are constantly paying attention to changes in behaviour, mood, or work performance that might indicate a colleague is struggling with mental health issues and offer support or professional help.

At OHCC, we also recognise the stigma associated with mental health issues. Mental health has long been shrouded in stigma, preventing countless individuals from seeking the help they need. The fear of judgment, discrimination, and misunderstanding often hinders people from reaching out for support. As a multilingual and CALD organisation we recognise the importance of addressing mental health stigma and provide compassionate care to those in need.

As part of our organisational values, we are dedicated to eradicating mental health stigma and providing comprehensive support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges through our numerous support services.

There are many ways to recognise and care for mental health. It’s important to firstly educate and create as much awareness as possible.

Mental Health Supports, Advocacy & Advisory Services at Open Hands

At Open Hands Community Care we are always actively promoting education and awareness surrounding mental health issues. It’s also recommended to seek support groups and as an organisation we can assist in bridging that gap linking individuals with support group services.

As a CALD organisation, we take a culturally sensitive approach to care. We understand that different communities may experience mental health stigma differently and tailor our services accordingly. In addition as an organisation we actively advocates for mental health reform and policies that protect the rights and well-being of those living with mental health conditions.

It is normal for families and individuals to experience a range of reactions to unexpected events. Every day we see people needing someone to lean on. Whether it’s someone battling with mental illness, facing addictions, struggling with finances, young people trying to find their way, or communities reeling from disaster, we’ll walk alongside you, to identify impacting gaps, assisting people identify social barriers. Our Psychosocial Recovery Coaches, Counsellors & Pastoral Care Team help participants on their individual journey to recovery and wellness, offering a listening ear, strategies to understand feelings, and ways to build resilience and emotional wellbeing. Contact us today, to find out how we can help!

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5 Self-Care Tips to Keep in Mind:

  1. Start each day with a mindfulness practice or meditation to ground yourself.

  1. Connect with Others.

  1. Educate Yourself.

  1. Reduce the Stigma.

  1. Seek Professional Help.

At Open Hands were here for you! Contact us today, to find out how we can help!

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