* Did you KNOW ? ? ( Discounts/benefits NEWS) *

The new Victorian Carer Card program is now open to unpaid carers in Victoria who provide home-based care to those with disabilities, chronic or mental illness, children needing foster care and the frail/aged.

A Victorian government initiative, the Carer Card program recognises the significant sacrifices and commitment that unpaid carers make every day. As such, the program provides a number of benefits to cardholders, including:
* discounts on a range of government and community venues, activities and services;
* free travel on public transport on Sundays and travel vouchers for two free return off-peak trips; and
* benefits and discounts secured through the participation of corporate sponsors.

The Carer Card program has more than 1,ooo participating businesses and partners whom offer a discount, deal or special offer for carers. *The website features a fully searchable directory that cardholders can use to search for offers in their local area.

* For more information about the program or to obtain an application form, visit www.carercard.vic.gov.au or call 1800 901 958.
('Intouch'.)

*** "UNIQUE" !!! ***

"Does caring
for me loom
so large that
it obscures
everything else?
I am still me and
you are still you
and we together have our world
about us". (Carer)

*** "TWISTS and turns" .. !! ***

"The road is
long and hard
It twists and turns

Obstacles present
themselves
We are overwhelmed

Caring is hard
But deep in our heart

We know that this is
what we want to do

As time goes by we
know that it enriches
our life". (Carer)

.. THIS, too ..

I recall that when I was in Rehab. it was expressed to me NOT to think of what I can't do now BUT to think of what I CAN do NOW (it's interesting as humans how we tend to minimilise our capabilities instead of finding positive NEW avenues to cater according to our needs) !

"No matter what direction you may travel, express who you are in your quiet moments" (Carer - Inaugural Carers' Calendar).

CARER Respite
(Freecall 1 800 059 059*)
CARELINK Services
(Freecall 1800 052 222*)

24 hours - URGENT
Respite and Support
Business Hours - for community service information
www.commcarelink.health.gov.au
www.respitebarwon.org.au


*Calls from mobile phones are charged at applicable rates.


Cheers.k.