Can Assist has opened a new branch in Tweed Shire to support cancer patients access funds to help pay for things like fuel, accommodation for when they need to travel for treatment, food, utility bills, and insurances.
‘Can Assist has been helping people living in rural and regional NSW access cancer treatment and care since 1955,’ says Daniel Ashton, Can Assist Tweed’s President.
The community-based, volunteer run network provides practical and financial support to cancer patients via fuel and food vouchers, and paying for utility bills, accommodation, medication and vehicle expenses like registration and insurances.
‘All the little things that you don’t realise are part of the cancer journey,’ says Daniel.
‘We are here to take some of the stress away from the patient and ensure they feel respected, supported and understood while they go through the cancer journey.’
The new Tweed branch is the fifty-sixth branch opened by Can Assist and Daniel says the funds from greenslips.com.au, who they have partnered with to open the branch, will make a big difference, helping people manage when they need it most.
‘Needing a green slip often creeps up on you – but it’s an essential expense; without it, people can’t get where they need to go. Having a car is essential, it enables life to go on. Some people can travel up to 300km to get to treatment, and depending on the type of treatment, some patients have to travel to Queensland. When you’re going through cancer treatment, being connected and feeling self-sufficient can have a remarkable impact. Being able to provide funds to pay for someone’s green slip can be life changing.
‘What sets Can Assist apart from other charities is that all money raised locally stays in the area to help local cancer patients across the shire. Branches are funded entirely by local donations, fundraising events, and corporate support such as greenslips.com.au, a CTP green slip insurance price comparison and information website.’
Can Assist are seeking support from the community both as volunteers and with donations to cancer patients who need financial support.
‘We’re looking for the community to come on board and support Can Assist in any way they can, so we can meet the requests coming in to support our local cancer patients,” says Vice President Sandy Rogers.
‘We are looking for financial support and we welcome the contribution of individuals and businesses that are in a position to donate. We also welcome more volunteers. We have a wonderfully strong committee and more resources are wanted, especially to get the message out there. We are ready to help and we can support patients financially and emotionally so they can concentrate on healing and attending their numerous appointments with less stress.’
To seek assistance from Can Assist Tweed, to donate or to volunteer, contact [email protected] or call the community liaison line on 0493 574 883.
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