Coles donation at St John of God Berwick Hospital

10 Aug 2020

Around 30 residents, who had been exposed to COVID-19, were transferred from their aged care facility in Kilsyth last week as a result of COVID-19 and were unable to bring personal items with them due to the infection risk. 

The hospital worked quickly to put measures into place to ensure the residents felt welcome, safe and comfortable upon their arrival. This included personal phone calls to their families, regular visits from a pastoral practitioner, immediate hygiene care and nourishment with hot meals.  Representatives from the hospital reached out to Coles and received the delivery within the day.

Caroline Zani, St John of God Health Care Group Manager Patient Experience & Nursing Strategy, said the items will assist the hospital to maintain the dignity of the patients which was especially important during these uncertain times.

“In a demonstration of the wonderful community spirit that we have seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, Coles were quick to step up and support the aged care residents who found themselves without personal items, she said.    

“The items will go a long way towards settling the residents by providing some home comforts as well as reassuring their families that they are receiving compassionate care.

St John of God CEO South East Melbourne Hospitals Lisa Norman said that caregivers were delighted to hand out the care packs to residents that showed them that people care about them during this period of uncertainty. 

“Thank you to Coles for responding swiftly and assisting us to provide an extra level of comfort and support to our patients, she said. 

“The donation sends a message to our front-line nursing and clinical caregivers that they are not alone and the community is watching and willing to assist.” 

Items included in the delivery include: 

• Roll on deodorant
• Hairbrush/comb
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Dry shampoo
• Shaving cream
• Disposable shaver
• Socks
• Lip balm
• Face cream
• Body moisturiser