A SIMPLE neighbourly gesture of kindness is about to make its debut in Mount Gambier.
The COVID Kindness neighbour card has been introduced by the Mount Gambier and Districts Health Advisory Council with the message “let us make kindness go viral”.
The card initiative, which was developed by a Queensland council, allows people to safely offer services to neighbours in isolation.
Mount Gambier and Districts Health Advisory Council Maureen Klintberg presiding member hoped the use of the cards would become widespread.
“The COVID Kindness card is a nice way to show your neighbours you care,” she said.
“The cards may be a lifeline for someone in need, who may just need a friendly chat.
“You can offer to walk the dog, take the bins out or help out with shopping if someone is in isolation.
“It is times like this it is essential we support one another and show compassion to those who need it, neighbour to neighbour, street to street.
“All you have to do is print the card out, add in your details and then pop the card into the mailbox or slide it under the door of those around you.
“If someone requires help, they can reach out to you on the number provided.”
The card includes safety information, including hand-washing reminders and ways to avoid direct contact.
The easily downloadable card is available through a dedicated page named COVID Kindness on Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell’s website, under the community tab.
There will also be printed copies available at local venues that are open for business, displaying COVID Kindness posters.
Ms Klintberg said it was important for community members to connect and build resilience.
“Self-isolation, loneliness and community disconnection are going to prove a major challenge for many people and we need to move to protect our mental health and wellbeing,” she said.
“I’d love to see these cards take off across the Limestone Coast and I encourage any interested councils to contact me.”
Mr Bell said he believed the initiative would have major benefits for the community.
“Never has our mental health been more important than at this time,” he said.
“Regional communities are famous for their resilience and we need to look out for each other during these unprecedented times.
“If this gesture can share the load just a little, we’re doing a wonderful service to our community.”
• Has an act of kindness caught your attention across the Limestone Coast? Email editor@tbw.com.au to help highlight how community spirit is impacting lives positively.
