THE Lenno Footprint Foundation has announced the formation of its new board, along with its move to provide local support for those in the Bega Valley at risk of self-harm.
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“Now that the foundation is a registered not-for-profit charity, we are now submitting our applications for fundraising licences across all states of Australia,” chairwoman Jenny Wells said.
“This is to allow all regional areas to access the website, and for the Lenno Footprint Foundation to obtain crowdfunding as a way of raising funds to help rural communities to receive support in simple and accessible systems of support, that are without stigma for people suffering anxiety, depression and who may have thoughts of suicide.”
The new board consists of directors Tony Cullinan and Mark Freedman, chairwoman Jenny Wells, secretary Carol Feige and treasurer Mich Symon.
With local contacts, prompt service and local networking for referrals if required, the foundation will offer a local service in addition to existing support hotlines.
The new support service will be available for people in the region of all ages and the foundation will hold a community meeting of all interested groups and organisations, with the aim of creating a united network of support in providing counselling as well as coordination of the rural hotline.
“This hotline is to provide support from our community to our community,” Ms Wells said.
“We are inviting interested parties to attend and have a contribution in what part they will play in this local system of support.
“In August, the Lenno Footprint Foundation will be providing a safeTALK and Skills Training workshop, to equip members of our sporting groups, local business, social groups in identifying and providing early intervention in our communities, and emotional wellbeing through effective communication,” Ms Wells said.
SafeTALK is a half-day alertness workshop that prepares anyone over the age of 15, regardless of prior experience or training, to become a suicide-alert helper.
Since its development in 2006, safeTALK has been used in over 20 countries around the world and safeTALK-trained helpers are an important part of “suicide-safer” communities, working alongside intervention resources to identify and avert suicide risks.
