From the frontline – International Day of Care and Support

This International Day of Care and Support, we highlight our frontline workers, whose contributions are essential to the well-being of our members. Each day, they provide vital services to refugees and people seeking asylum at the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC). Each interaction extends care and support, profoundly impacting individuals and families.

Beyond essential services, our frontline workers foster a sense of belonging and dignity for those facing unimaginable hardships. Simple yet profound acts of care—whether a comforting word, a warm meal, or a listening ear—go beyond immediate needs. In a world where many feel invisible, our team ensures that everyone who walks through our doors feels seen, supported, and valued.

Hear from our frontline on what it means to welcome refugees and those seeking asylum.

First Impressions matter

For many who arrive at our Home of Hope’s doors, the reception team is their first contact. It’s an interaction that Blessing, from the Access and Intake team, takes on with pride. “Knowing that clients appreciate the care and support is fulfilling. The smiles we receive and goodbyes they give are a testimony to this.”

Something as simple as directing someone to the ASRC Foodbank or helping them reach an appointment can be a small kindness that boosts their confidence. In the Footscray reception area, you’ll find friendly faces ready to assist, creating a warm, welcoming ambience. The Access and Intake team’s work is vital in connecting people seeking asylum and refugees to the services they need to live safely and independently in the community.

Basic needs

Refugees and people seeking asylum often arrive at the ASRC without healthcare, work, or study rights, leaving them unable to access basic needs. After triage, they are welcomed by Virgil, the Relief Coordinator from the Housing & Aid team, to receive the first instances of help. “Our work’s importance is providing basic human rights for refugees and people seeking asylum,” Virgil says.

Through relief services, the team witnesses many beautiful moments. Instant relief is brought to families through essential services. Virgil recalls one fond memory: “We supported a single-mother family for a couple of years, providing access to food, education, legal support, health, and community activities. They eventually received a protection visa and are now independent members of our community.”

Coming together over a meal

While essential services are vital to the safety and well-being of refugees and people seeking asylum, building community is equally powerful. At the ASRC, we know that food brings people together, with many cultures valuing the tradition of gathering around a shared meal.

Providing a delicious, nutritious, culturally sensitive meal is a service the ASRC proudly offers. For Huyen, the Community Food Services Manager, “a meal is more than its ingredients. It’s a source of comfort, a connection to our culture, and a social glue that unites us.” For a community facing uncertainty, having a place to sit with others and enjoy a hot meal four days a week offers comfort. Many members fondly mention this as one of their favourite parts of visiting the ASRC.

Watching people access the Community Kitchen is special for Huyen: “When I look around, I see the joy a community meal brings. People are warmly greeted by dedicated volunteers who take pride in cooking and serving, connecting everyone over a shared meal.”

Through these stories shared by frontline services, we are reminded of the immeasurable impact our team makes each day, providing not only essential services but also dignity, compassion, and a sense of community for those seeking asylum. Their dedication transforms the ASRC into more than a resource centre; it’s a place of welcome, understanding, and hope. 

As we celebrate the incredible work of our frontline staff, we invite you to consider the power of small acts of care and kindness in your own lives. Together, let’s continue building a world where everyone feels they belong and communities are uplifted through compassion and connection.