EsperanceCare

Services

Annual Report2014-2015

Contents

1. About Esperance Care Services ............................ page 3

2. Our Patrons ............................................................ page 4

3. Meet the Esperance Care Services Board .............. page 5 ! !

! 4.Chairperson’s Report ............................................... page 9! ! !

5. Service Manager’s Report ...................................... page 12! ! !

6. Pastoral Director’s Report ...................................... page 14! ! !

7. Strategic Plan - Mission/Vision/Values .................. page 15 ! !

8. Strategic Priorities/Goals ....................................... page 16! ! ! !

9. Emergency Relief Report ........................................ page 17

10. Our Volunteers ...................................................... page 20

11. Training ................................................................. page 22

12. Work for the Dole Project/Garden Project .............. page 23

13. New Building and Opening Photos ........................ page 24

14. Stakeholder Feedback .......................................... page 25

15. Organisations We Work Closely With .................... page 27

16. Sponsors and Supporters ...................................... page 28

17. Esperance Care Services Details .......................... page 29!

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Enriching lives

Caring for our community

Sharing hope

Esperance Care Services is a non-profit Christian organisation which develops and delivers crisis, emergency and community services to the people of the Esperance region. The organisation’s focus is to identify and utilise resources to alleviate hardship, suffering and isolation. Esperance Care Services was founded in 1996 in response to individual’s needs seen within the region. What started as a department of Esperance Christian Family Church with a small group of dedicated volunteers, has grown into a respected and valued community organisation. From the 1st of July 2000 Esperance Care Services received government Emergency Relief funding to distribute in our community, and was endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient at that time. From the 1st of July 2005 Esperance Care Services was endorsed as a Public Benevolent Institution. Since that time Esperance Care Services has continued to distribute Emergency Relief funding to those in need in the Esperance Community.

Esperance Care Services works with people at their point of need.

What We Do…… ∗ Crisis assistance

∗ Food hampers

∗ Emergency Relief

∗ Pastoral counseling

∗ Thrift shop

∗ Advocacy assistance

∗ Training

∗ Referrals  

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Our PatronsThe Honorable Dr Graham Jacobs MBBS, DRCOG, FRACGP, FACRRM. Medical Practitioner Kathryn Jacobs

Growing up from a rural background, Graham attended school in Esperance and then graduated from The University of Western Australia as a Doctor in 1975. Soon after graduating University, he returned to Esperance where he established his 30 year career as a country GP, cementing his credentials as a primary care giver to the community. This contribution to the community was carried through in 2005 when he was elected as our local Member of Parliament.Graham believes that family plays an important role in creating the foundations for a successful community. His wife Kathryn, a qualified midwife and a long distance runner extraordinaire, has always been extremely supportive of and passionate about his medical and now political career. Graham and Kathryn have always tried to instil strong family values in their five children, who are now adults. These values which Graham brings with him to Parliament enable him to make the right decisions, and the tough choices throughout his career as Minister and as our local Member.

After enjoying many years as a physician, surgeon, obstetrician and family counsellor, Graham wanted to use his extensive experience in rural living and doctoring to make a difference for our local community in State Parliament. As our MP, Graham will continue to strongly represent the people of Eyre on important local issues such as crime, hospitals, schools, roads, power, water and affordable housing.

“In my role as the elected member of State Parliament, I have had many opportunities to see how the work of the Esperance Care Services plays an integral role in supporting and assisting many people in need in the greater Esperance area. Esperance has a population of 14000 people, with the number of homeless and needy people on the rise. The town sees a number of transient families and singles in need of assistance, as well as local residents. The Service provides not only immediate assistance when needed in the way of a food parcel, but also ongoing support and encouragement for the many people who come through their doors, by the way of self-development training, affordable clothing and home wares, and referral if necessary to associated agencies. From the Eyre electoral office, we regularly refer constituents to Esperance Care Services, confident that they will be treated with compassion and offered the ongoing support that they need.Esperance Care Services is the major providers of emergency relief within the town of Esperance, and sustained funding is essential, not only for the continuation of services at Esperance Care Services, but with the understanding that these social support services for the disadvantaged cannot possibly be met by government agencies.” Dr Graham Jacobs 2015

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Esperance Care Services Inc Board 2015

Heather Smith, Chairperson

Heather has been on the board of Esperance Care Services since 2002 and became the chairperson in 2013. She has volunteered at the organisation since 2012, taking a leading role in the administration of

Emergency Relief.

In 2015 she took on a paid position as Supervisor for Work for the Dole 3 days a week, and continues in her other volunteering positions.Heather trained as a high school maths/science teacher, and homeschooled 7 of her children for 19 years. She and her husband Dean pastored churches in country Western Australia for 30 years, during which time she lead women’s and children’s meetings and teachings. They have also travelled on short term mission trips to South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe, where they taught leadership, relationship and family courses to pastors and leaders of churches. Heather has just completed a Certificate 3 in Graphic Design.

Her position as Staff member and Chairperson gives Heather a unique position to keep Esperance Care Services focused on its vision as a Christian care ministry for all who wish to use this facility.

Warren Willis, Vice Chairperson

Warren is a licensed plumber/gas fitter, who has been self-employed for many years.He managed a plumbing supplies shop in Esperance for 4 years before returning to the practical side of his trade.

He is also a trained teacher with 10 years experience in both high school and trade teaching.He has taught in Esperance, Norseman,Northam, and in Victoria. His teaching experience led him to take on children's ministry which involved heading up Children’s Church over a period of ten years, and he still continues in the area of Christian Education at the Christian School in Esperance. Other contributions Warren and his wife Sue have made to the community are in the delivery of ‘Meals -on-wheels”, visiting at the ‘Aged Care’ facility. Warren and Sue have worked with addicts in ‘Sherwood Cliffs’, a rehabilitation facility in N.S.W., mentoring youth with addiction issues. They have both also travelled to Indonesia with Y.W.A.M to teach children in an orphanage, as well as completing a six month Discipleship Training School, with Y.W.A.M. where they ministered to

street people in Newcastle N.S.W. This is Warren’s second year on the board and his plumbing expertise has been a great benefit to Esperance Care Services during the moving process this past year.

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Jennifer Florisson, Secretary

Jennifer is a teacher at Wongutha CAPS Indigenous vocational boarding school, Esperance WA. She has developed and managed a work placement program, boarding environment and policies and procedures.

She has worked in short term humanitarian projects in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Bangladesh, Vanuatu and Cambodia (children’s homes and schools), including TAE training and school audits.Jennifer and her husband, Steve have developed and deliver nationally recognised accredited Certificate IV training for boarding staff including “indigenous” and “Culturally and Linguistically Diverse” units.She is currently the co-owner and trainer of Boarding Training Australia RTO and recently presented a workshop at the National Boarding Australia Conference (QLD)Her qualifications include:- Certificate IV Training and Assessment (TAE401 10) Diploma of Vocational Education and Training (TAE50111) Diploma of Training Design and Development (TAE50211)

Certificate IV Community Services Work Dip TeachingJennifer’s passion is to equip individuals and organisations in Australia and overseas with training and qualifications that enable them to provide the highest quality care and education for children. She accomplishes all this with humility, gentleness, and sees the potential in all those she meets.

Steven Florisson, TreasurerHaving been a teacher for 36 years, School Principal for 24 years,trainer for four years , and currently owner of Boarding Training Australia RTO, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the

board. He is also a Public Officer for the CAPS Association. Steve and his wife Jennifer developed nationally recognised Certificate IV Training for Boarding Staff. His work also includes hostel/boarding audits, consultancy work and reports and assessing and developing whole school training programs in Vanuatu.Steve’s Qualifications include:- Certificate IV Training and Assessment (TAE40110) Diploma of Vocational Education and Training (TAE50111) Diploma of Training Design and Development (TAE50211) Diploma Community Sevices Dip Teaching B ED M Ed Admin

PhDSteve has had numerous trips overseas and can keep an audience captive with tales of his many adventures.

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Chris Meyer, board member and CEOChris has lived in the Esperance region for 53 years, 33 of those as a farmer in the Condingup reagion. In 1996, he was one of the group who established Esperance Care Services.

He has a long history of community involvement. He has owned and managed several successful businesses before coming back to Esperance Care Services and taking on a management role in 2006. Chris is a pastor with Australian Christian Churches and pastors the local church.Chris has worked on short term mission trips to South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia traveling to rural areas in these countries, and this has greatly broadened his experience in working with the poor and disadvantaged.The passion for and dedication to the community Chris has was honoured on Australia Day 2014 when he was awarded Citizen of the Year for the Esperance Region.Chris is a strong communicator, particularly to those who, for whatever reason, are

struggling to cope with day to day life.Chris’s heart is for the poor, not only physical but also spiritual - and to show them the way to hope for the future, especially in a relatonalship with Jesus Christ.

Michael Hart, board memberMichael, with his wife Catherine, is the owner and manager of a farming operation north of Esperance. The farming operation started small in 2002 with just 700acres of crop and since then has grown to a stage

where they now farm 5000 acres.Michael has also had experience in employing and training part time and full time labour on his propertyHe has a passion to see poverty not only alleviated, but for people to be given the tools to overcome their circumstances. Michael was one of Esperance Care Services’s first supporters, and has continued to do this by donating both time , energy and finances to see the vision that the board has for Esperance Care Services be brought to pass.Michael is also a board member of Esperance Christian Family church.Michael brings to the board not only his expertise from his business background, but also his ability to think outside the square is a valuable asset to Esperance Care Services and relate all things to a strong relationship with his Christian faith.

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Christiane Smith, board memberChristiane has been involved in Esperance Care Services for many years, however this is her

first year on the Board as she believes in the Esperance Care Services core values and wants to see it grow in financial independence and how it supports the Esperance community and wider region.Christiane has worked for the Member for State Parliament, Dr Graham Jacobs MLA, for 6 years. During this time she has learned how to work and communicate with State and Federal Departments and Members of Parliament, Local Government and Community groups and services throughout the region. Christiane is also passionate about coordinating corporate and wedding events and is currently on the Festival of the Wind Committee.Christiane is the middle child in a family of 10, is a lover of Christ,

wants to be a firefighter when she grows up and looks forward to seeing Esperance Care Services go from strength to strength in the near future.

Rod Parsons, board memberRod has been involved on the Esperance Region since 1968, when he boarded at the residential collage to attend high school. He also helped pioneer the fledgling years 11 and 12. High school helped develop his

passion for fitness, mainly Hockey, Football and Tennis.After high school he returned to the family farm at Fitzgerald, then did a 12 month stint at Curtin University, (then W.A.I.T), but the call of the bush drew him back to the family farm. Married in 1979, Rod later moved to Bunbury with AMP Insurance, then moved to Esperance in 1983 and worked for an Insurance Brokerage. He now owns his own Insurance Brokerage in Esperance, managing.Community and church involvement has been ongoing. At one stage coordinating a sand dune program for up to 100 youth and children and many volunteers. He is president of Esperance Mountain Biking Association and been instrumental in building a nationally recognised 14km mountain bike trail at Esperance, plus he mentors a member of road bike riders.Rod enjoys the privilege of being husband of one, father of two and

grandfather of three. His most prized qualification is being an A.R.G.G (All Round Good Guy).Rod was appointed late 2015, and he brings a mix of energy, humour and enjoyment of people from all walks of life to the Esperance Care Services Board.

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Chairperson’s Report What a full and amazing year we have had. God has blessed us mightily, both as an organisation and as the people in that organisation. But with that great blessing comes responsibility and a lot of hard work.

One of the biggest events of the last 12 months has been the buying and relocation of Esperance Care Services to the Gilpin Street premises. This all was kick started by the Premier Colin Barnett’s visit last year. Chris Meyer, Graham Jacobs MLA and Malcolm Heasman then found the building and the application for funds through the Lotteries Commission began. This was an enormous job mainly carried out by Sue Meyer and Meredith Waters, with visits from Lotteries representatives. We decided to raise $50,000 locally as part of the cost and are very grateful to Warren Willis and Michael Hart for doing the footwork, the final total was $52,000. We also thank the local businesses that supported us, a board to commemorate this will be put in the foyer. Moving premises in June/July 2015 was a huge undertaking, most of the responsibility was taken on by Chris Meyer and Andrew Waters, thank you guys, many hours were spent before moving cleaning and preparing floor surfaces to make the building ready to “fill”. Thanks also go to Michael Florisson and Florisson Home Furnishings for donating the new floor coverings in two offices , the staff room and the food room.Thanks also to Gary Brown for the many signs he made for us throughout the building. John Crawley has been amazing. He has donated many goods and hours of work to our new premises - roof, front entry, inside ramp, back toilet, fire exits to name a few. All this involved much research and planning, liaising with authorities and Care Services management and we are very grateful.

On the 30th of July we had the official opening of our new building by Dr Graham Jacobs MLA - who is along with his wife Kathryn, Patrons to Esperance Care Services - so his opening the building was a double blessing. Dr Jacobs MLA represented the Premier Colin Barnett who could not be present for the opening. Also present were past managers - Dean and Heather Smith, Anne Green, Shane and Kita Stringer - also representatives from Lotteries West (our major donors), CLIFFS, local businesses, the Shire, local churches, other community organisations and our Esperance Care Services board and volunteers. The program was very special as God was honoured for what He has done for this ministry and these people. Pastor Steve Wallace and Dean Smith closed the program with prayer, and it was followed by an afternoon tea and tours for any interested people around the premises by volunteers.

Last year the Department of Social Services changed how federal funding was to be done. Sue Meyer completed all the paperwork , but when the funding was announced in December Esperance Care Services was not included. It was not known to whom the local funding was given, but our staff immediately went into action, including contacting our Federal Member, Rick Wilson MP. We were blessed to have a man who stood strong and represented us well, and the funding was reoffered to Esperance Care Services. This is a major portion of our Emergency Relief funding $42,818 per year. This is a two and a half year contract that expires 30th June 2017. We also receive a grant from Lotterywest, this grant functions differently and we apply for the money as we need it. The last amount applied for and received was $25,000 for the previous twelve months (granted 19th September 2014 to be acquitted 31st October 2015. This has been done with next application in place).

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We have been very blessed to receive each year a regular donation from the McVay Foundation, which this year has been increased to $60,000 after a positive meeting with Sarah McVay. These monies go towards paying the wages of a worker who also takes an interest in youth events. At this time it is Andrew Waters who works two days (Tuesday and Wednesday) at Esperance Care Services. We are thankful for the McVays generosity.

The last couple of years have seen Meredith Waters do huge amounts of governance work for the organisation and board of Esperance Care Services. She has put together many important documents for us throughout year that has included the Policies and Procedures Manual. As I said “included”, Meredith has done much research and work for us with regard to job descriptions, pay rates, grant information and on and on. As our secretary for the last years she has given much with a heart for the organisation. We all on the board thank you Meredith. Meredith is resigning from the position of secretary and her knowledge in these areas will be greatly missed.

Earlier this year Steve Florisson brought to our attention a document “Internal Controls for Not For Profit Organisations”. He suggested, and as a board, we felt it would be a good thing, that we spend ten to fifteen minutes each meeting looking at areas suggested in the manual. This has been successful as we are now reviewing the “Control Environment Checklist”. This has raised much discussion on evaluation and appraisals of both employees and volunteers, and it has been decided to put these in place.

In July CLIFFS donated $10,000 towards a new truck for Esperance Care Services. To add to this the local Rotary Club donated $2,000. Andrew has done much research and it was finally decided to buy a covered in trailer and twin cab ute. A trailer was acquired from an auction in Perth at the total cost of $4,185.50, and the ute is in the pipeline.

With the growth of Esperance Care Services we have found there are many more needs to be met - both people wise and business wise. This lead to a Saturday morning board meeting where we, as a board, discussed the structure of staffing of the organisation. It was decided that a Business Manager was necessary to release the Service Manager and pastoral support areas to work more with people. From this we decided to advertise for the position and following interviews the position was successfully filled by Gemma Johnston. Also it was discussed changing the Service Manager’s position to one of CEO, a position Chris Meyer would fill, and Programs Co-ordinator - a position Sue Meyer would now fill. So this is our staffing as of 27th October 2015: Chris Meyer - CEO - working 30 hours/week - Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday Sue Meyer - Programs Coordinator working 15 hours/week - Tuesday, Wednesday Andrew Waters - Youth Officer- working 15 hours/week - Tuesday, Wednesday Gemma Johnston - Business Manager - 20 hours/ week - Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday Jenny Potae - Book keeper - 1 Day - usually ThursdayMax Employment have a contract with Esperance Care Services to supervise people with a Work For The Dole program. This involves employing two supervisors for 15 hours a week. These supervisors are Carmen O’Rourke - 15 hours - Wednesday, Thursday, Friday Heather Smith - 15 hours - Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

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Gemma Johnston began as Business Manager on 8th September and is fitting in amazingly well with both staff and volunteers.

She is learning what her position involves and we look forward to her being with us for a long time.

In September Chris and Sue Meyer along with Bev Gigney and Tracy Cameron went to the Business Excellence Awards and were thrilled to find Esperance Care Services had received the award for “Best Community Services Organisation”. An award sponsored by Horizon Power.

On behalf of Esperance Care Services Sue Meyer applied for a Royalties for Regions grant so the organisation could update all data collection, this is to do with Emergency Relief information, staff and volunteer information and so on. We were approved and the data system was installed in June through Community Data Solutions. Meredith Waters and Sue Meyer are to be thanked for the many hours spent putting things in place and even though the final small problems are to be ironed out, it has already been a very valuable resource.Earlier last year Sue Meyer applied for a grant with Lotteries West to set up an Esperance Care Services website. The grant was approved and the company Red Meets Blue was approached and accepted to set this up for us.

What does the future hold? Esperance Care Services has the potential to continue to grow in the ways it can share the reality of the truth of Jesus and what a life with Him truly means. There are many doors still to be opened and He continually leads us. It is very exciting. Both Chris Meyer and Bev Gigney have met with and visited the Food Bank facilities in Perth. Chris is very keen to extend their operations to Esperance and they are willing to help set up a Food Bank here in Esperance. The plan for a community garden is still very much in the forefront of our thinking with Bunnings being willing to help in many ways and a volunteer also keen to help. We would like to buy the block next door to facilitate both this and other needs (ie parking) for Esperance Care Services.

I personally would like to thank all members of the board, Steve Florisson as treasurer, Meredith Waters as secretary, Warren Willis as vice chairperson, Chris and Sue Meyer, Jenny Florisson and Michael Hart for all their support throughout this very blessed year as a Esperance Care Services Board. I pray and know that the future is going to be amazing.

Many Blessings, Heather Smith Chairperson 2014-2015

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Service Manager’s ReportDetermination, energy, and courage appear spontaneously

when we care deeply about something.We take risks that are unimaginable in any other context.

- Margaret J. Wheatley

It is with great pleasure that I present the 2014/2015 Annual Report for Esperance Care Services Inc.As we again reflect on the highs and lows of the past year, we must remember why we are here and continue to stand and represent those in our community who are, for whatever reason ‘doing it tough’. I am also reminded as I reflect on the year that was, of the relationships that have been formed, the people we have assisted and the lives that have changed in a positive way because of Esperance Care Services.

Some of the challenges and successes of the past year have included:• In December 2014 we were told that our application for DSS funding had not been successful. After

much negotiating and lobbying we were able to see this decision overturned and we received notification of DSS Emergency Relief Funding going to Esperance Care Services as the preferred provider. Many thanks must go to Rick Wilson MP (Member for O’Connor), Dr Graham Jacobs MLA (Member for Eyre), Esperance Shire President, Malcolm Heasman, many local service providers (including ESCARE, BOICO, Esperance Crisis Accommodation Service) and our volunteers and clients who lobbied long and hard on our behalf.

• The initial Lotterywest application to purchase both the building (2 Gilpin Street) and the block next door was denied. However, we were successful in receiving Lotterywest Funding to purchase our new facility (2Gilpin Street). We thank Lotterywest for the assistance they gave us as we navigated the application for funding. This does mean we need to keep looking at our options to purchase the block next door for parking and to build a storage shed/facility.

• Esperance Care Services hosted a grand opening of our new facility which was a very successful day, attended by over a hundred people.

Jenny Potae, sadly lost her husband early in the year and a number of our volunteers have faced some very difficult times that have required both emotional and practical support. It has been beautiful to see our team come together in these times and provide care and compassion. These experiences continue to show us just how much Esperance Care Services is important to our staff, volunteers and the clients we serve.

There is nothing more powerful than a person telling you their story; sharing their hardship. And there is nothing more uplifting than connecting with people, assisting them and walking alongside them in their journey. What a privilege it is to be part of people’s lives, to be trusted with their stories and to see lives changed daily. Esperance Care Services continues to promote a culture that focuses on putting people first and listening not just with our ears but with our hearts.

We have continued on our focus of improving and implementing our governance policies and processes. Thanks to Steve Florisson for continuing to follow the control environment checklist and providing assistance and advice in implementing OSH protocols.

The widespread support and generosity we receive from the Esperance Community is one of the most satisfying aspects of our work. Whilst our volunteers and staff focus on providing assistance to those we serve, it is encouraging to know that our goals and our challenges are shared by so many people across all sectors of the community. Their commitment by way of time, financial support and donations of goods to our thrift shop, is inspiring and strengthens our resolve.

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I attended “Footprints to Stronger Families” program run by Centrecare in August and will continue to meet with Karli Florisson regarding some joint programs and training opportunities.Esperance Care Services has continued to present ReJener8 training and currently has a wait list for our next block of training.Esperance Care Services has also provided training and training opportunities to staff, board and volunteers. We will be facilitating a Mental Health First Aid training course for all staff and volunteers in January 2016.

A number of our staff and volunteers completed an Advocacy Training course earlier this year, with five participants completing a train the trainer advocacy training course.

Our strength is our people. We are fortunate and appreciative for the outstanding commitment and dedication of the many volunteers, supported by a relatively small number of dedicated staff, who come together every day to do their very best for the people we serve. Our volunteer numbers this year exceeded 45.

Over the past year we have achieved much and the foundations for further improvements and new initiatives have been laid. We recognise that to achieve our goals, we need to collectively focus on supporting and developing our board, volunteers and staff, continue to provide careful management of finances, identify further operational efficiencies and explore all opportunities to grow our income. We remain confident that our short and long term plans will generate the much needed funds required to meet the increasing demand for assistance.

Another of our focus areas this year has been to further strengthen and/or establish strong relationships with other community organisations. This has proved fruitful with increased community donations, referrals (to and from other organisations) and stronger connections with staff from other agencies through intentional networking.

In conclusion, I would like to express my sincere thanks to all our supporters. To all those who help Esperance Care Services in so many ways – thank you for your generosity in time, financial support, encouragement and prayer.I would like to make a special mention of the McVay Foundation who continue to support ECS to provide services to the young people in our region – your generous donations have allowed us to reach out and assist the young people in our region.

To Lotterwest and our local donors who have made our dream of having our own home a reality – heartfelt thanks!

To John Crawley who has assisted us (enormously) to comply and meet the standards we need to meet to ‘run the ship’.

As my role at Esperance Care Services changes, and I get to spend more time away from my desk……I look forward to what the future holds for Esperance Care Services. I acknowledge the amazing board we have and the work they have done. Also as Meredith Waters resigns her position as secretary, I want to thank her for the many hours she has put in assisting in so many areas. I could not have done it without you Meredith.

Best wishes to Chris as he steps into the CEO role.Sue Meyer, Service Manager 2015

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Pastoral Director’s Report

The past year at Esperance Care Services has seen a number of significant milestones achieved.

• Within of the Premiers visit (May 2014) we have moved into our own premises here on Gilpin Street, with much more room and with much more comfortable surroundings. Our new premises are also located in a prime position very visible to those entering town while being in close proximity to our previous locations so is familiar to the local population.

• We have more than forty volunteers for the first time.• We have employed a Business Manager.• We have Shire approval to hold Worship Services at 2 Gilpin Street.

These four milestones very much affect how we do Pastoral Care and how well we do Pastoral Care.

1.Because of the larger more comfortable surroundings people are more inclined to just “hang out” creating great opportunities for relationship building.

2.Having more than forty volunteers, often with 15+ in the shop at any one time also generates more opportunities and indeed demand for Pastoral Care.

3.Having a Business Manager will (when fully up to speed) release more time for Sue and I to be involved doing Pastoral Care.

4.Having approval to hold Service gives us opportunity to offer more formal spiritual input through Isaiah 61.

The changing in roles for Sue and I will I believe give us greater capacity for Pastoral Care in that both men and women will be better catered for. Much of the need for Pastoral Care relates to domestic violence and relationship issues so the presence of a female care provider is essential.I very much look forward to us getting fully settled into our new home allowing us to better focus on our core business (which is people) and are less occupied with other issues around buildings and processes.I would like to thank the Board of Esperance Care Services for their committed support and enthusiasm during the past year and I look forward to even greater things in 2015/2016.

Chris Meyer Pastoral Director Esperance Care Services Inc27/10/2015.

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Esperance Care Service’s Strategic Plan 2013 - 2018

Esperance Care Service’s Mission “We alleviate poverty, hardship and suffering in the south-east coastal region of WA”

Esperance Care Service’s Vision

We see Esperance Care Services as a place where those in need are empowered and equipped to transform their situation for the better, where creativity and opportunity thrive. We see the cycle of poverty and hardship broken for people as they not only re-imagine and find hope for themselves, but also contribute back into society through social and micro-enterprise. We see excellence in our emergency relief, advocacy and referral services where Esperance Care Services stands as an example to other regions on how to serve those in poverty, hardship or suffering.We see a quality thrift shop operating to provide affordable clothing and home furnishings for those in the community. We see the whole of the Esperance community generous in heart and deed, through donating new and used goods to help those in need. We see the current facilities expanded to meet the growing demand, with significant resources flowing into our organisation.

We see an army of volunteers being effectively recruited, inducted and supported to carry out the great cause of Esperance Care Services. We see these volunteers honoured and recognised in the community for their hard work and benevolent spirit. We also see people come to know their value and grow in all areas; physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual, and to know hope for their future.

Esperance Care Service’s ValuesWe are committed to demonstrating the love and message of Christ, expressed in:Person CentrednessWe are committed to putting people first, seeing value in each individual and meeting them where they are at. We believe relationships are the foundation for transformation and lasting change.Kindness & CompassionWe are committed to always operating in a way that demonstrates the kindness and compassion of Jesus by showing gentleness, empathy and care to all in the ECS community.Holding HopeWe are committed to a better tomorrow for Esperance Care Services, its staff, volunteers, clients and stakeholders. We are also committed to holding out hope for people where they have none.Social JusticeWe are committed to standing in the gap for those who can’t stand for themselves and for those in need. We are committed to being a voice in our community for justice, equality and inclusion.Safety and StewardshipWe are committed to providing the safest environment possible for our staff, volunteers, clients and community. Our strength is in our trust and confidentiality. We are committed to making the most of the resources we have and working toward the most sustainable approach to service.

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Esperance Care Services Strategic Priorities 2013-2018The following priorities will be the focus areas for ECS over the next 5 years:

1. Social and micro-enterprise 2. Thrift shop operation 3. Breaking the cycle through holistic services 4. Recruiting and developing volunteers 5. Training, advocacy and referral services 6. Provision of emergency relief

Esperance Care Services Strategic Goals 2013-2018The following strategic goals outline what Esperance Care Services will endeavour to achieve over the course of the next 5 years. They will also form the foundation for any further Esperance Care Services operational planning and resource allocation.

By 30th June 2018

1. We will have established five additional income streams through social and micro-enterprise. 2. We will have established an online presence that promotes our services and allows for online

sales.3. We will have purchased our own property and facilities that increase the space to deliver our

services.4. We will have secured the resources for furniture, service and transport vehicles.5. We will have employed a full-time paid Service Manager and Volunteer Manager. 6. We will have researched, developed and implemented a breaking-the-poverty-cycle strategy for

the Esperance community.7. We will have established the ministry arm of Esperance Care Services.8. We will have a clearly defined recruitment, induction and training process in place.9. We will have eight trained Advocates in place and will be running 2 training workshops on self-

advocacy and advocacy services each year.10. We will have streamlined our referral pathways, developed our relationships with providers and

receivers and increased the number of referrals by 50%.11. We will have established a fully functioning Food Bank service for the Esperance community.12. We will be securing $100,000 per year in funding for Emergency Relief and have also employed a

part-time ER Manager.

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Emergency Relief ReportEmergency Relief helps people address immediate basic needs in times of financial crisis. Emergency Relief clients accessing Esperance Care Services fit the following categories: * Unexpected expenses - e.g. vehicle breakdown, licences, fines, dental work, death or injury, accident. * Lack of employment opportunities (exacerbated by mine closures and completion of local contracts -e.g. foreshore & port development)

• High utilities cost • Relationship & family breakdown • Centrelink breaches &/or payment disruptions. • Drug and/or alcohol issues/addiction.• Medical costs • Mental Health issues - financial/social/emotional issues often exacerbated by financial concerns

(over 1/3 of clients present with depression, anxiety, self harm and suicidal ideation). • Shift from Single Parenting Payment to Newstart when youngest child reaches six years - significant

drop in income but expenses remain the same. • Housing - lack of affordable housing or ability to maintain stable housing.

See the following table for Emergency Relief Assistance provisionEmergency Relief Provision Occasions of Assistance New Clients

01/11/12 - 01/11/13 1024 14801/11/13 - 01/11/14 1465 19301/11/14 - 01/11/15 1091 152

It is interesting to note that Esperance Care Services is open four days a week, 50 weeks of the year, so this is an average of 22 clients a week, 4-5 per day. This helps to put into perspective the level of assistance given to a town and region the size of Esperance. Through the direct emergency relief and the referral service, Esperance Care Services offers comprehensive support to clients presenting for assistance. There is a "no wrong door" policy, with no discrimination - anyone can present themselves for assistance. In addition, Esperance Care Services provides advocacy support, basic financial counselling, mentoring, pastoral counselling and training courses. Esperance Care Services is also a conduit for other community agencies to promote their training and workshops to our clients, and the community. Esperance Care Services encourages self-reliance by limiting the number of occasions of assistance per year, often assisting only with a hamper and not a voucher because of the goods we now have, and explores other options with clients to manage their finances.

With the funding received from the Department of Social Services and Lotterywest, Esperance Care Services implements the following programs:

* Distribution of food hampers with food purchased from Foodbank

* Distribution of food vouchers cashed in at Super IGA

* Providing good quality clothing, bedding, household goods for people in crisis

* Direct Emergency Relief

* Contribute to or fund the cost of outstanding utility bills e.g. gas, electricity and fuel.

* Direct Emergency Relief17

Recently Esperance Care Services has been blessed by increased support from our local Woolworths branch into both Emergency Relief and General assistance through the thrift shop. This has come through bakery goods on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays with this often being supplemented by fresh vegetables and other goods. We are very thankful to Woolworths for this continued assistance.We buy the food for our Emergency Relief hampers from Food Bank, Kalgoorlie; and we wish to thank Esperance Freight Lines for transporting the pallet’s of food directly to us free of charge. This is a great bonus and saving as it saves day trips to Kalgoorlie and the cost that involves.

Referral Services - as identified during initial assessment interview, clients can be referred to:

* Financial counselling

* Mental Health - suicidal ideation, depression/anxiety and diagnosed mental disorders

* CentreCare - relationship counselling, victim support and abuse counselling

* Hope - drug and alcohol counselling, Aboriginal family support

* Senior social worker at the hospital - general counselling

* SilverChain - HACC assessment officer - for clients to access HACC services

* ESCARE - parenting support groups, parenting skills training, My Way (NDIS) My Time (families with a child with a disability support group)

* BOICO - mental health support and carer support

* GIFSA - respite and support for people with a disability

* Esperance Volunteer Resource Centre - people seeking to volunteer or re-engage with community

* Department of Housing - priority housing support

This year, thanks to Aurizon, we have added a large cool room to our resources, and it is often well stocked.

Bev Gigney works tirelessly in the Emergency Relief area of Esperance Care Services. She also is establishing online sales of many goods. Bev has been back in Esperance for just over two years after spending seven years working in and establishing orphanages in Xian, China.

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Esperance Care Services Client Feedback

“............Esperance Care Services has done an amazing job in assisting myself and my family, although I’m still at a young age in my life without the courtesy of these incredible understanding people in my life I wouldn’t of been able to get through the tough times life has challenged me with. I commend the outstanding time and effort both Chris Meyer, Bev Gigney and the staff have provided both emotionally and financially for myself and my family. Although at times it’s embarrassing and hard to ask for help, their kind, discreet, selfless nature and behaviour they show towards me makes it a lot easier in asking for that helping hand. Thank you for all you do, you go above and beyond your job entitles you to do. Kind regards” Woman, age 24

“I arrived in Esperance as a single mother with two beautiful children, with no support or security. I had only two bags of personal belongings as I had to escape a very unsafe environment. Whilst my husband has been in rehabilitation, Esperance Care Services has been an amazing help. With supporting a new and happy start and rebuilding my life for my children and I in Esperance. Esperance Care Services have helped in so many ways financial and emotional.” Single mother, 2 children age 25

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VolunteersEsperance Care Services is grateful for the hard work of the many volunteers who currently contribute their time and energy to the operating of this valuable ministry, at last count it was over 40.

We are always willing to welcome any who would like to come and help in any way. Volunteering includes helping all areas from thrift shop, boutique, sorting any and all articles, hanging the same, rag cutting, gardening, painting, cleaning, and on the list goes.

The last few years have seen a “rag trade” develop with over 40 local businesses buying our own cut rags; an excellent “book nook” grow, along with many books being sent on to other places (library, schools, book shop in Narrogen etc); the opening of our boutique with brand clothing - often new; our own in house seamstress who has made library bags and recorder bags to give to the children in our local schools. The opportunities are endless.

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“... a wonderful service to the Esperance community, I really enjoy working here and I think we are very lucky to have such a good service in Esperance.” ! ! ! Judy

“When you turn up in the morning everyone gives you a hug and welcomes you ........ shows they love you and care for you. Even when you wake up and feel sick you still want to come in as everyone’s so nice and caring. When having problems with paperwork, or anything, they will give a helping hand and take time to cheer you up.When I turn up I cheer others up as I like to have a laugh ........ what I am saying is it goes both ways” Greg

“This is my family...” Joan

“I have worked as a volunteer for Esperance Care Services for several months. My time here has been varied with me helping with the sorting of donations that we have received to working in the Thrift Shop. I have found that all staff and volunteers are happy and willing to lend a hand at anything that is asked of them .Staff and volunteers are always there with a helping hand or a kind word and this is due to the great work environment that Management has created. I look forward each week to my time spent at ESC.” Rosemary

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Esperance Care Services Training Arm

ReJener8 has been very successful and Esperance Care Services has run a number of courses for local women.The aim of ReJener8 is to provide encouragement and skills for women who are looking to re-enter the work force, take up volunteering or study opportunities, but are lacking the confidence and knowledge to take even the first step to reaching their goals.ReJener8 focuses firstly on women recognising their individual strengths, and building participants self-confidence before introducing them to the many and varied opportunities woman have in our community. Secondly, during the course, women will be exploring community mapping and given the opportunity to meet leaders in our community who can inspire and support them to engage in various local social and business enterprises.This course aims to expand women’s life opportunities by providing a safe, small group environment to explore their potential and build damaged self-confidence.The course is presented over 6 sessions. Topics covered include:Who Am I? & Where on Earth Am I? – What defines me in my life and in my being? This includes identifying “What are my strengths, resources and skills?”Communication –“Whatcha talking about?” – Listening/speaking skills, recognising and using passive-aggressive and assertive ways of communicating. – Getting my message across – use of body language. Self-advocacy skills.Isn’t it a big bad scary world out there? – No Way!Introducing the community around us. Volunteering, Job market, education & community connections.Absolutely Fabulous – Personal presentation, dress, make-up and body language.Fly Lady – Finally Loving Yourself – Routines to succeed.Dare to Dream – Set free to be all you can be – “How and where do you see yourself in 10 years time?” – and your strategic plan to get there

Esperance Care Services recognises and thanks the Department of Local Government and Communities for funding the ReJener8 course.

Nulsen Primary School Chaplain

Esperance Care Services has assisted Nulsen Primary School in many ways.Some of the ways Esperance Care Services has helped us in the last 12 months include:* Providing library bags for the pre-primary area and a number of books for the children to take home for reading.* Provided books for the school library and classrooms* Assisted with food and clothes for families in need* Assisted four families so that their children could attend their school campAs school chaplain I often refer people to Esperance Care Services for help, knowing the families will receive prompt and effective assistance.I am very grateful that Esperance chaplains can call on Esperance Care Services for assistance.Thanks once againSue (Chaplain, Nulsen Primary School)

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Work for the Dole Project 2015-2016Max Employment Work for the Dole Program began of 9th September, 2015. Heather Smith is Supervisor of Work for the Dole Program (Esperance Care Services– Care Packages; Activity ID: 36023681) Heather has her team working well and this has certainly meant more organisation in the sorting/furniture area.

This activity improves the skills and experience of participants in the recycling / upcycling and care services industry through working as part of a team to produce an additional 250 emergency care packages for distribution throughout the Esperance community. Participants also undertake furniture repair, sorting and stock piling of clothing and other donated goods. Participants assist with the production of care packages by constructing boxes and filling with clothing, toiletries, sheets, towels and other necessary emergency care items. Participants will also be renovating the Esperance Care Services collection bins through sanding and painting them. Lunch is provided to the participants, as it is to all of the volunteer workers within the facility, such that they feel part of the larger Care Services team.

Carmen O’Rourke is Supervisor of Work for the Dole Program (Esperance Care Services Boutique; Activity ID: 71225681) Carmen supervises up to 3 Work for the Dole Participants from Max Employment.

This activity improves the skills and experience of participants in the retail industry through working as part of a team to establish a clothing retail outlet from good quality donated clothing. Items such as wedding dresses, ball gowns and suits are displayed, marketed and sold as low cost options for these boutique items such that less affluent members of the community are still afforded the opportunity to participate in important occasions, whilst also providing an opportunity for participants to get experience in retail practises such as money handling, customer service and retail marketing. Carmen also oversees and designates tasks to Michelle who has asked to meet her Work for the Dole Requirements at Esperance Care Services. Michelle has taken on a role in reception and is looking to learn skills and gain experience in PA duties such as scheduling meetings, minute taking, task prioritising and use of various forms of written and verbal communication.

Michelle has been volunteering at Esperance Care Services for a couple of months now and was a participant in the Skill Hire Community Garden Project.

Garden Project- greatly helped by Bunnings Esperance who provided not only soil, plants, fertiliser and mulch but also hands on advice, thanks Bunnings and your positive workers.

Look at it now

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New Building and Opening

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Esperance Care Services Stakeholder FeedbackEsperance Care Services staff and volunteers work tirelessly for the needs of the Esperance Community as a whole. They have a very small staff who co-ordinate a number of volunteers in order to assist those most needy in our town and its surrounds. The efforts of Esperance Care Services in emergency relief are critical to the Esperance community and their assistance is delivered in such a way that affected individuals and families are able to deal with their immediate crisis situations with support and dignity. It is noteworthy also though that the organisation works from a strengths-based approach and so encourages individuals to become less reliant and more self-supporting in the future where ever possible.The organisation maintains important links and partnerships with other service providers in the area and continues to inform and refer their clients to such services and support systems available; ultimately providing full emergency relief to those in need.Esperance Volunteer Resource Centre has developed an invaluable and successful relationship with Esperance Care Services whereby potential volunteers are given an excellent variety of opportunities. Esperance Care Services is working within best practice principles in Volunteer Management and thus encourages their volunteers to have self-reliance, work readiness skills and a general feeling of achievement and belonging in the community.

Manager Esperance Volunteer Resource Centre

“...Wongutha CAPS is an Aboriginal Boarding School for Year 11 and 12 students. These students predominantly come from remote communities where they are exposed to a range of challenges including: alcohol and drug abuse, domestic violence, health issues and long term unemployment.Wongutha CAPS has a strong vocational focus and supports students in preparing for life after school. An important aspect of this is work place learning. As a school we have benefitted greatly from the partnership with Esperance Care Services whereby they have provided many opportunities for Wongutha students to participate in work experience over the last 10 or more years. Students get to work alongside volunteers and see the services provided by Esperance Care Services to support disadvantaged people within the community. This experience has provided students with a greater understanding of support services available to them and their families and also increased their confidence in interacting with non-Aboriginal people. The students also benefit from being able to serve and support both the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal clients that access Esperance Care Services which helps to develop students’ concept of community service which is a great attribute for them to take with them in life.Esperance Care Services is a well established organisation that has continued to effectively support and provide services to the most disadvantaged in the community with very limited resources. They have an excellent reputation in the community and amongst the people that they support. Wongutha CAPS is extremely fortunate to have the partnership with Esperance Care Services and looks forward to continuing to work together to see people encouraged and supported as they work through the many challenges of life.

Principal, Wongutha CAPS 2016

..Over the last decade the role of Esperance Care Services in meeting the needs of the disadvantaged, the ‘at risk’, and those who find themselves in unexpected financial need has grown greatly. They provide a professional and caring service through their staff and volunteers, and are able to direct clients to other local service providers and government organisations that can provide additional services to them, or meet their needs more readily. Esperance Care Services is recognised by the churches and other advocacy groups as the initial point of reference when looking to assist people in financial need, and they have developed great respect and strengthened relationships throughout the community of Esperance. They

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have developed a good system of policy and procedures to manage the distribution across the life of a contract, so as to maximise the support through the broader community.Esperance Christian Family have partnered with Esperance Care Services on many projects through the years, and will continue to do so. I once encountered a family who lost everything when their home burnt down. Esperance Care Services provided them with clothing and furniture to start again, as well as the provision of food and emergency relief funds to meet their immediate health and sanitary needs. I personally, have regularly had opportunity to see firsthand the service provided to individuals, and the endeavours of Esperance Care Services to assist those people in creating a stable and sustainable financial plan for themselves, whilst maintaining that persons sense of self-worth, dignity, and value to our community. In addition to distributing Federal Emergency Relief Funds provided by the Federal Government in the past, Esperance Care Services continues to maintain access to affordable, even free, furniture, and is piloting a program to supplement food hampers with fresh produce harvested from their community garden project.........! ! Pastor John Bayly, Senior Pastor Esperance Christian Family 2016

...I am a Youth Worker at Youth Connections in Esperance and am writing this letter in support of Esperance Care Services and their integral part in supporting those most in need of support in Esperance. I have worked in partnership with Esperance Care Services on many projects that serve a dual need to my clients in both providing a sense of contribution to their own self esteem and sense of self worth, while also contributing back to the community to grant this feeling. Initiatives such as the Re-Cycle program in which we would collect dilapidated old bikes donated to Esperance Care Services which we would maintain, fix and then donate to Esperance Care Services clients and their children at no cost to the client. This has expanded into furniture restoration and also work experience/placement with Esperance Care services.I cannot justify the service Esperance Care Services provides to the community in words, it is quite simply irreplaceable. Their efforts improve lives, change lives and on many occasions SAVE LIVES. Esperance is a unique place with many problems that defy its small size and Chris, Sue and all at Esperance Care Services are at the frontline battling these problems, often with little or no reward for their efforts. How Esperance Care Services as a charity has run on such a shoestring budget for so many years defies logic and the support they have needed to continue has always been a scramble for funding. It is just another challenge for them which, through the eyes of a Youth Worker in Esperance they should not have to constantly fight so hard for day to day, month to month, year after year. So to sum up Esperance needs Esperance Care Services............ Jason Searle, Supervisor, Esperance Residential College 2016

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Organisations we work closely with .........

BOICO

ESCARE

Esperance Volunteer Resource Centre

Esperance Ministers Network

ACTIV Industries

Esperance Crisis Accommodation Services

Department of Justice/Youth Justice

Esperance Senior High School

YouthCARE

Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA

Centrelink

CentreCare

Department of Family & Children Services

Restore Hope

GIFSA

Max Employment

Wongutha CAPS

Local Churches

Disabilities Services Commission

Senior Social Worker Population Health

Red Cross

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Thank you to our many sponsors and supporters,

without whom we could not operate.

THE MCVAY FOUNDATION

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Esperance Care Services - Details

address:- 2 Gilpin Street Esperance Western Australia Australia 6450

mailing address:- PO Box 1814 Esperance Western Australia Australia 6450

Phone:- (08) 9071 6310 Fax:- (08) 9072 1645 mobile:- +61 428 146 206 email:- ecs@westnet.com.au

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