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.

Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for upcoming information

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!

Click to Contact Us

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!

Click to Contact Us

In a powerful display of solidarity and commitment to mental health awareness, on behalf of Open Hands Community Care (OHCC), our very own Operations Lead, Pule Salafai made us proud by representing and participating in the Yellow Hope Walk event organized by the Black Butterfly Group. The event, held on Saturday 16th September, aimed to shed light on the critical issues of youth suicide and mental health, igniting conversations that can save lives.

The Yellow Hope Walk event was a vibrant and poignant affair, with attendees donning bright yellow attire to symbolize hope and positivity in the face of adversity. CEO’s of Black butterfly Group Tapu & Joe started the group after sadly losing their niece to suicide late August 2023.

Pule a mental health advocate herself was fortunate to know and get amongst the conversation, raising awareness and encouraging communication.

Youth suicide and mental health issues have become increasingly prevalent concerns in today’s society. According to recent studies, the global youth suicide rate has been on the rise, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and support. In response to this growing crisis, Manawise Group and the Black Butterfly Group joined forces to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young individuals struggling with mental health challenges.

The color yellow was chosen for its association with optimism and sunshine, reflecting the event’s goal of bringing light into the lives of those battling mental health issues.

Pule, alongside members of the community, and other mental health advocates, gathered at Berrinba Wetland Park to walk together in unity. The walk route was adorned with uplifting banners and signs, each bearing messages of hope, encouragement, and resources for those seeking support.

The event also featured guest speakers who shared their personal experiences with mental health challenges and emphasized the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding these issues. These moving testimonials served as a reminder that mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of age or background, and that seeking help is a courageous step towards healing.

“This event is a powerful reminder that no one is alone in their mental health journey,” said Pule, representative from OHCC. “Open Hands Community Care is dedicated to being a beacon of hope and support for those who need it most. Together with the Black Butterfly Group and other like-minded organizations, we can create a safer and more compassionate community for our youth.”

The Yellow Hope Walk event organized by the Black Butterfly Group and attended by Open Hands Community Care was a resounding success, drawing attention to the pressing issues of youth suicide and mental health. By coming together as a community and embracing the color yellow as a symbol of hope, participants took a significant step toward reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and fostering an environment where young individuals can seek help without fear or shame.

As the sun set on the event, it left a lasting impression on all who attended, reinforcing the importance of continued efforts to raise awareness, provide support, and ultimately save lives in the battle against youth suicide and mental health challenges. Together, with organizations like the Black Butterfly Group, there is hope for a brighter, more compassionate future for our youth.

 

You’re not alone – We are here for you- Speak with someone today 13 11 14

Keep updates quicker with what’s on via our Facebook& Instagram

Housing & Accommodation at Open Hands Community Care

As an organisation we are dedicated to providing comprehensive support and care services to individuals with diverse needs. One of the key principles that underpin our approach is the promotion of Housing, Accommodation & Supported Independent Living (SIL).

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is an approach to care that prioritises enabling individuals to live as independently as possible, while still receiving necessary supports. At Open Hands Community Care, we recognise that every person we serve is unique, and their journey towards independence may vary. Our SIL encompasses various levels of assistance, including housing, personal care, and community engagement.

The Key Benefits of Supported Independent Living (SIL):

  1. Dignity and Autonomy: SIL empowers individuals to maintain their dignity and autonomy. It fosters a sense of self-worth and self-determination, allowing people to make choices about their daily lives.
  2. Community Inclusion: By offering support within community settings, SIL encourages individuals to actively participate in society. This inclusion enhances their social skills, relationships, and overall well-being.
  3. Cost-Efficiency: SIL is often more cost-effective than institutionalised care. It reduces the need for extensive facility-based services, making it a sustainable option for both individuals and communities.
  4. Personalised Support Plans: Each person receiving SIL support benefits from a tailored support plan that addresses their unique needs and goals. This individualised approach ensures that the support provided is meaningful and effective.
  5. Improved Quality of Life: When individuals have the opportunity to live independently with support, their overall quality of life tends to improve. They have the freedom to pursue their interests, engage in activities they enjoy, and maintain a sense of purpose.

Open Hands Community Care’s Commitment to SIL.

Our organisation is committed to the principles of Supported Independent Living, and we integrate them into every aspect of our services:

Supported Independent Living (SIL) is at the heart of Open Hands Community Care’s mission. It is a holistic and person-centred approach that recognizes the inherent worth and potential of every individual we serve. By prioritising SIL, we aim to enable individuals to lead fulfilling lives, actively participate in their communities, and achieve their unique goals. Through our commitment to SIL, we continue to make a positive impact on the lives of those we support, their families, and the communities we serve.

With our Short-Term Accommodation, you can find comfort in the knowledge that your family member is in a safe and compassionate setting, receiving tailored care and assistance. Our inviting amenities and devoted staff establish a comforting environment away from home for your loved one.

For those in search of longer stays, our Medium-Term Accommodation provides a smooth shift between one’s residence and the community, encouraging self-sufficiency and social integration. Our team collaborates closely with individuals to create customised support plans that cater to their distinct requirements and goals.

At Open Hands Community Care, we recognise the significance of respite for caregivers and the beneficial influence it has on the overall welfare of families. Be assured that our compassionate and skilled team is dedicated to delivering outstanding respite services, empowering both caregivers and individuals with disabilities to flourish.

Experience the solace and peace of mind that our Respite Services offer. Allow us to be your reliable ally in assisting your loved one on their distinct journey while you seize a moment to rejuvenate and prioritise self-care. Reach out to us today to explore our respite choices and begin a journey of renewal and assistance.

Here are some of recent feedback from our Housing and Accommodation tenants:

“You have provided me with suitable accommodation at an incredibly challenging time in my life and for that, I will forever be appreciative and grateful of your service.”
– OHCC NDIS Participant & Housing Tenant

“You have saved me from moving for the 18th time in the last 2 years, ultimately homeless. Proving me accommodation has allowed me to flourish in my recovery. I’m so grateful.” – OHCC NDIS Participant & Housing Tenant

Check out our current SIL/STA/MTA/Respite Vacancy

Require more info? Contact us today via our CONTACT US form.

Alternatively we’re only one call away – call us today on 0451 170 420 or (07) 3372 8632.

You can also reach us via our Facebook Page.

Open Hands Community Care is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of its participants and clients by providing essential support and fostering a sense of belonging within the community. With dedicated support workers, we ensures that individuals have the opportunity to engage actively with their surroundings and live fulfilling lives.

We empowers our participants and clients to venture out into the community, enriching their lives through meaningful experiences such as the participation within our Neighborhood Marketplace.

Many participants and clients of Open Hands Community Care find immense fulfillment in giving back to their communities. We actively supports and encourages volunteer opportunities. Whether it’s helping at the Marketplace, attending or participating in community events, or mentoring youth, individuals are given the chance to make a positive impact, enhancing their sense of purpose.

This month our participants got to experience different exciting activities that encouraged them to explore their interests and passions, develop new skills, and build relationships with others in their community.

Check out some of our snaps of the month!

Open Hands encourages the above activities and more because we understands that being an active member of the community is essential for overall well-being.

Our support workers continuously build strong relationships with our participants and clients, gaining a deep understanding of their needs, preferences, and aspirations. This personalized approach allows for tailored support plans that empower individuals to engage confidently in community activities.

One of the key aspects of Open Hands’ approach is helping participants and clients discover and pursue their interests and hobbies. Whether someone is passionate about art, sports, or nature, Open Hands facilitates opportunities for engagement. The goal is to ensure that individuals have access to activities they are genuinely enthusiastic about.

Community engagement is about more than just participating in activities; it’s also about building meaningful social connections. Open Hands understands the importance of friendships and companionship for mental and emotional well-being. Our support workers are actively encourage participants and clients to connect with others who share their interests, fostering a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation.

Open Hands Community Care places a strong emphasis on promoting independence among our participants and clients. Our support workers work closely with individuals to develop essential life skills, such as budgeting, grocery shopping, and using public transportation. This newfound independence empowers our participants to explore their community with confidence, knowing they have the skills needed to navigate various situations.

At Open Hands we’re not just a Registered NDIS Provider, we are a family and that is evident in all that we continually do and strive for every day, with the support and services we provide.

Thank you to our participant family for an adventurous and beautiful month, we can’t wait to create more memories.

Wish to be part of our family or know someone who can benefit from our disability services – reach to us today or refer someone on our REFFEREAL PAGE

Don’t forget to check out our many adventures and updates on our Facebook & Instagram

Aligning with similar core values and visions with Open Hands Community Care, Carinity is a leading not-for-profit, Christian based care organisation. The organization helps individuals and families reach their full potential and live enriched lives. Just like Open Hands, It’s an organisation with a bold vision: to create a more compassionate, equitable, and connected community. Through a wide range of projects and initiatives.

One of these initiatives are the Collaborative Community Projects. Carinity’s Collaborative Community Projects objective is to fund community outreach programs that relieve or mitigate disadvantage and promote connectivity for vulnerable people.

Open Hands is proud to announce funding from Collaborative Community Projects has been awarded in the aim to expand the Neighborhood marketplace. Through this partnership Open Hands will soon have a demountable building and proper shop setup with more space to offer food products to the community. Together, the two organisations are forging a path towards a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

The service of the marketplace will continue to help reduce the cost of household staples by providing access to discounted foods and groceries – up to 75% off retail price – as well as free food hampers.

“Our food relief services started back in April 2020 as a direct response to the pandemic. Times were tough then with our service catering to upwards of 100 families per week, but now, with the increase in the cost of living, this demand has skyrocketed. Our Neighbourhood Marketplace now caters to 3 to 4 times that number” says Managing Director Sherifaye Kargbo.

“Customers say to us, ‘thank you, we do not know how we would survive otherwise’. It puts a smile on our volunteers’ faces and gives us that push to keep going.”

Community members from all walks of like, as well as recently arrived refugees, migrants, individuals and families facing diverse crisis can access the service, including people from as far away as the Gold Coast.

Community-driven initiatives such as the Collaborative Community Projects stand as beacons of hope, reminding us of the power of collaboration and compassion. Carinity, an organization dedicated to making a positive impact on communities, is exemplifying this spirit through its unwavering support of Open Hands Community Care.

“We’re really grateful to Carinity for their help. It will have a wider impact on the lives of many people who are doing it tough,” said Mrs. Kargbo

Carinity’s partnership with Open Hands Community Care is a testament to its commitment to the community’s welfare.

July 2023

July has brought with it the successful commissioning of our Brand New Cool Room, all thanks to the Gambling Community Benefit Fund – Round 114 Grant Round. After 7 months of waiting our Brand New 2.4m x 2.4m Cool Room has arrived and has been installed!

We extend our gratitude to the @GamblingCommunityBenefitFundQueensland for their most generous grant funding. The commissioning of the Cool Room means that we’ve doubled our space and cool capacity, reduced risks of manual handling incidents and injuries to our much loved Volunteers, but most importantly our Neighbourhood Marketplace will continue on in the vital work of  daily Food Relief.

We extend our thanks and appreciation to all our community members who continue to support our initiative, and a special mention to @LeeanneEnochMP for supporting our application.

We are grateful!

On Saturday, 23rd June 23 our Operations Lead, Pule Salafai together with Mama Salafai, attended yet another Women’s Luncheon at 4EB, a prominent community radio station. The luncheon aimed at empowering and celebrating women from diverse backgrounds. The event, held at the station’s headquarters, brought together a remarkable group of women, fostering networking opportunities, and encouraging discussions on various topics.

4EB aims to organise four luncheons annually collaborating, forming partnerships for women’s empowerment in Qld. The luncheon served as a platform for women to connect, share experiences, and gain insights from accomplished speakers and professionals. Attendees included women from all walks of life, ranging from entrepreneurs and artists to activists and community leaders.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from the 4EB team, emphasizing the importance of women’s empowerment and their contributions to society. The gathering featured an array of inspiring guest speakers who shared their stories, challenges, services and triumphs.

Four new community services were in attendance at the luncheon.  One of the notable speakers, Lisa from ECCQ – Ethnic Community Council Qld, specialising in support services for Women from CALD communities. Another Katrina who is part of Women’s Empowerment Lead from Social Policy Group Logan, specialising in Family and Domestic Violence. The Director from Multigroup Gold Coast specialising in community partnerships, information and referral services in the GC area, was also in attendance, together with Indian group leader, who is also a Bollywood Dancer recently located to Brisbane from NZ offering Rhythm’s Dance Group.

The panel comprised successful women of our community, each with a unique background and expertise. They shared practical tips, personal anecdotes, strategies and services they provide.

In addition to the speakers and panel discussion, the luncheon featured interactive activities and networking sessions. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and forge new professional relationships. The event created a supportive environment, fostering collaboration and encouraging women to uplift and empower one another.

4EB, as an inclusive community radio station, has a long-standing commitment to promoting diversity and providing a platform for underrepresented voices. The women’s luncheon exemplified the station’s dedication to supporting and celebrating women from all backgrounds, fostering an environment where their stories and experiences can be heard and appreciated.

We extend a huge thank you to Irene Bayldon and the team for yet another wonderful event put together, and extending an invitation to Open Hands Community Care. We look forward to many more.