THE story “Left in Limbo” (The Guardian, October 11) has some misconceptions relating to the refugees in Swan Hill area.
We are calling for humanitarian visas for the families of our refugees who are still in danger in Afghanistan.
Also, we are working to apply for permanent visa status for these refugees who are on temporary visas in our area.
Local support for refugees and asylum seekers from Afghanistan, who live in Swan Hill, is provided by a group of dedicated volunteers.
Unlike larger city centres, our group works with minimal government support, two part-time workers through SMECC to support the whole multicultural community. We are reliant upon grants and donations to run education and assistance programs.
The core work is assisting refugees with appropriate visa applications – it is a time consuming and detailed process assisting those without good English skills.
Lawyers and agents, necessary for the process, are also expensive. Our self-trained volunteers spend many hours liaising and recording details required.
The lack of government action, promised in the election, is disheartening, for volunteers and refugees.
Thus, the mental health of both groups is of great concern.
However, we keep positive and look forward to welcoming and supporting families safely coming to join their husbands in Australia when the government finally processes applications.
Swan Hill Uniting Church auspices this mission through the Community Issues Group (SHUCCIG) and welcomes volunteers who want to contribute in any way, to contact Joy, 0408 771 557, or David, 0417 800 656.
Joy Jones
Chair, Community Issues Group
