Thousands of face masks, hand sanitiser, face shields and disinfectant wipes have been distributed to dozens of community organisations in the region.
The donations form a part of City of Newcastle’s continued efforts to support the community through COVID-19.
Regional Clinical Director for Awabakal Medical Service Toni Carson said access to personal protective equipment (PPE) was crucial for local services to continue to operate.
“We’re grateful to have the support of City of Newcastle and have access to PPE supplies, which we’ve distributed to Aboriginal medical clinics across the city,” Ms Carson said.
“The supplies are essential to ensure that our community maintains safe and has reliable access to medical services during this challenging time.”
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes added the initiative ensures that frontline organisations are able to safely support Novocastrians.
“City of Newcastle has provided protective equipment to dozens of local organisations such as multicultural services providers, Aboriginal services, child and family services, youth services, homelessness services and community centres, who are on the frontline during the pandemic,” Cr Nelmes said.
“In the past two weeks, City of Newcastle has distributed more than 60,000 face masks, along with supplies of hand sanitiser, disinfectant wipes, face shields and medical gowns.
“By providing access to the much-needed equipment and hygiene products, we can help ensure our most vulnerable community members are protected and that essential community services can continue to operate as safely as possible.”
The bulk PPE is made available through a partnership between Resilience NSW and Healthshare.
These organisations provide the items to local councils across the state to ensure community organisations are best equipped to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Earlier this week, City of Newcastle also announced the expansion of its Community and Economic Resilience Package, which will see at least $10 million invested into the local economy.
To find out more about how the council is responding to the pandemic, go to newcastle.nsw.gov.au/covid-19
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