A web of financial hardship

Over a three-month period, VincentCare’s Financial Counsellor Julie provided critical support to Lisa and Chris, helping them navigate a complex web of financial hardship. Through persistent advocacy and strategic intervention, Julie secured a series of life-changing outcomes for Lisa, Chris and their family.

Through VincentCare's Financial Counselling program, emergency relief funds were used to pay off essential utility bills, including a $199 Origin gas account and $400 electricity charge. Julie also arranged payment of their daughter’s 2024 school fees,which were in arrears enabling her to stay at her school and negotiated a fortnightly payment plan for her 2025 school fees.

Shepparton Council rates were also covered, easing pressure on the household budget.

Julie successfully advocated for the full waiver of their land mortgage and negotiated a reduced interest rate on the home mortgage, saving Lisa and Chris over $100 per month. 

Lisa’s long-term hospitalisation had left them financially vulnerable  but, with Julie’s help, they were able to access her a Total and Permanent Disability claim and Income Protection payments.

Additional support included Woolworths gift cards for food and an application for Utility Relief Grant to address Goulburn Valley Water debt.

Julie’s work exemplifies the vital role financial counsellors play in empowering individuals to regain control. Her efforts not only alleviated immediate financial stress but also laid the foundation for long-term stability and wellbeing.

HUME COMMUNITY HUB
Hume Community Hub, located in the Goulburn Valley, prides itself on providing services for people who may be experiencing family violence, financial disadvantage or social isolation. The services offered include family violence crisis support and case management, financial counselling and assistance, emergency relief support and outreach for people in isolated communities.

*Names and image are changed to protect peron's privacy