InspiringHealth
Knowledge is power – especially when it comes to improving and maintaining our health. A joint initiative between Housing Choices South Australia and Flinders University, with support from the University of Adelaide, boosted the health of participants. Inspiring Health involved participants over the age of 40, many of whom were our residents taking part in health assessments, and a range of free activities aimed at improving their balance, hearing, strength, coordination and other aspects of health. This study, which took place over six weeks, was reviewed by the Southern Adelaide Clinical Human Research Ethics Committee and deemed an unprecedented success. In January, a new toddler play station and outdoor exercise area was o cially opened in Shorewell Park by the mayor of Burnie City Council, Alwyn Boyd. Located on Wiseman Street, the project was a collaboration between Housing Choices Tasmania, Mission Australia, Burnie City Council, the Tasmanian Community Fund and Burnie Community House. The Tasmanian Community Fund provided $19,225, with Housing Choices Tasmania contributing $26,270 to fund the project. Residents now have access to fitness equipment near their homes and young children now have a safe area to play in with plenty of opportunities for socialisation and healthy activities. Jointproject a realwinner Housing Choices Australia partnered with Good Shepherd Microfinance to provide additional support to our residents in the form of free, confidential financial counselling sessions with Good Shepherd’s Good Money coach. Between August and September 2017, Good Shepherd Microfinance o ered dedicated workshops on financial topics and issues for Housing Choices residents at several locations across Melbourne. These workshops provided practical tips, tricks and activities to help residents manage their money and feel in control of their finances. Good Money Coaches support residents to improve household budgeting and money skills with useful and proven tips and suggestions. Additionally, through an agreement secured by Housing Choices, our residents can access an interest free loan to assist buying an essential household item like a refrigerator or washing machine, even a couch, subject to a ordability and eligibility. Housing Choices is able to secure interest-free loans to amounts up to $1500 which, in special circumstances, can be repurposed for medical and dental costs, education expenses, laptops and other items. Moneymatters
81 | Annual Report 2018
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