Donated data keeps vulnerable people connected and safe through crises in country SA

FREE mobile calls and data has helped country South Australians in crisis as homelessness and community services regional agency ac.care steps up support to vulnerable people.
Clients at ac.care’s Mount Gambier, Murray Bridge, Berri and Millicent sites now have access to free prepaid Optus SIM cards to ensure they can remain connected.
“We are constantly seeking ways to boost the diverse support we provide to people as the housing crisis impacts on country communities and people face increased pressures from factors such as homelessness, rental pressure, domestic violence and poverty,” ac.care homelessness and community services manager Trish Spark said.
“We know that access to communications is vital for people in crisis to protect their safety, engage with services, apply for jobs or housing and keep connected with family and friends, especially if they may not have a stable home or personal address.”
Ms Spark said internet-access was vital as services, including Centrelink, have increasingly moved online.
“Mobile data is essential if someone is in crisis and needs to be connected with these services, especially for people in rural and regional settings unable to access services in-person due to having no access to effective means of transport,” she said.
The country specialist has become part of Optus’ Donate Your Data™ program through its partnership with Good360 Australia.