EPIC Assist (EPIC) is committed to changing the lives of people with disability through partnerships with like minded organisations.
One of those organisations is Bayside Transformations (Transformations) in Hervey Bay, who provide a Residential Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Program.
Bayside Transformations spokesperson Lisa Love explained the non-profit organisation’s program.
“It is a therapeutic community in which the community itself, through self-help and mutual support, is the principal means for promoting personal change. Transformations house up to 25 men and 10 women, they work hard on their recovery and are nurtured and supported through a wonderful program,” Lisa said.
Paul Fearnley, EPIC Regional Coordinator, has been working with Transformations and explains the partnership.
“The rehabilitation program is non-government funded and has to raise its own finances to provide this valuable service to these men and women from all over Australia. They have set up business ventures to help fund their program and employ graduates,” Paul said.
EPIC has placed participants into work at Transformations’ business venture Bayside Vegetable Production, which prepares vegetables for local cafés, restaurants and commercial kitchens.
“EPIC also engages with Transformation graduates who are completing rehab to assist them to find work in the local community,” Paul said.
Bayside Transformations sought a community grant for cutting equipment used in the production kitchen of Bayside Vegies.
“The equipment helps residents with the work therapy needed to operate the business, and all money raised from this goes towards the running cost for Transformations,” Lisa said.
EPIC looks forward to continuing working with and supporting Bayside Transformations and their business ventures.
If your organisation could benefit from a community grant, find out more or apply here.