By Casey Neill
MELBA Support Services helps people with disabilities lead their own lives and be part of their community.
But the not-for-profit facility needs support from the community to continue its valuable work.
CEO Jim Burns said Melba was staring down the barrel of disaster because of an obsolete bus fleet and had launched a mail-out campaign to tackle the looming crisis.
“Our bus fleet is old, outdated and costing far too much money in maintenance,” he said.
“And with every unexpected break down, it disrupts vital services for locals with disabilities.”
Six buses in the 15-strong fleet need immediate replacement.
“But at around $65,000 per bus we are also in desperate need of community support – particularly as the government no longer funds transport,” Mr Burns said.
Melba relies on its buses to transport local people with disabilities to medical appointments, day services, visit family and friends, work, shopping, respite, and community events.
“Our bus fleet is an imperative part of our service delivery as it maintains our contacts with the communities around us,” Mr Burns said. “Without them, the people we support are stranded and our services are inoperable.”
Melba provides community services designed to give people with disabilities greater independence and control over their own lives. Melba services Melbourne’s south east and receives some government funding, but relies on wider community for additional financial support.
Call Melba Support Services on 9760 8200 or visit www.melbasupport.com.au for more information or to lend a hand.
