“Belonging in Australia” a collaborative effort

The Fitzroy Learning Network (FLN) – like all Neighbourhood Houses – is doing great things again.

“Belonging in Australia”
This collaborative project involving Yarra City Council, The Brotherhood of St Laurence and other local agencies, has just started. It will target Sudanese and Somali women who, without partners, are settling in Australia with young children under the “Women at Risk” category.

The women will be linked with Community Networkers and special programs are being organised to help them integrate into the broader Australian community. The first outing has been organised – to look at some of the Commonwealth Games venues – yes, some people do not know the MCG exists!

Later, trips to rural Victoria will be organised, together with functions, and the local Health Nurse is starting to organise educational and play groups.

There is also a new child development facility which will enable mothers with children enrolled to attend classes for the first time. This has meant more enrolments and a new expanded timetable.

FLN’s great volunteers
The Volunteer training program recommenced during February with 26 volunteers and 12 Community Networkers have already commenced their 7 week training course.

The Community Networking Program has been a huge success. There are now over 50 Community Networkers, who go about their tasks mostly unseen, helping many and asking nothing in return.

FLN has 118 Volunteers: assisting students in the classroom, preparing meals, organising community events, fundraising activities, gardening, odd jobs, publicity, web page maintenance, committees, the list goes on and on.
For more info – E: adminfln@vicnet.net.au T: 03 9417 2897
W: http://www.fitzroylearningnetwork.org.au