Good Shepherd Youth and Family Services has received a $50,000 donation from a professional association which has represented travelling salespeople for more than 130 years.
Good Shepherd, which has helped people and families across Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula battle poverty and disadvantage since 1976, offers housing and education support, general mentoring programs and financial counselling. It also forms groups which work on building confidence and life skills.
Its St Albans office offers a youth housing and support service for homeless people aged 16-24
who are or at further risk.
Commercial Travellers Association of Victoria treasurer and secretary Peter Booth said the $50,000 donation was donated to Good Shepherd because of its reliable services and support for people living in poverty.
“We feel very confident that we have made the right choice in making this donation and that the money will be used effectively to help people who are struggling in their lives,” Mr Booth said.
The association was formed in 1880 to represent the interests of salespeople around the state, guiding commercial travellers to the best places to stay.
As accommodation standards improved and technology advanced, demand for the association’s services plummeted and membership gradually dwindled.
“It got to the point where we were losing money to be in existence,” said Mr Booth, explaining why the association had decided to close.
Good Shepherd chief executive Robyn Roberts said, “We’re extremely grateful for this kind donation.
Ebru Halimoff
