Victorians self-isolating due to coronavirus with no access to food and essentials will receive emergency relief packages of food and personal care items under a new state government program.
The program will support people in mandatory self-isolation, who have little or no food, and no network of family and friends to support them. Each eligible household will receive a two-week supply of essential goods.
Food packages will include items such as long-life milk, pasta, cereal, canned vegetables and sugar.
Personal care packages will also be distributed to eligible households and include soap, toothpaste and deodorant. Additional items may also be provided depending on the needs of the household, such as nappies or baby formula.
The packages will be delivered door-to-door, with other distribution points to be established as required. For people who are not eligible for the emergency relief packages, they are encouraged to be self-reliant and call on the help of family and friends wherever possible during the current pandemic.
Anyone who has returned home from overseas from midnight on March 15, or has been in close contact with a confirmed case of coronavirus, must self-isolate for 14 days.
The emergency relief program will be coordinated by the Red Cross in partnership with Foodbank Victoria and under the direction of the State Relief Coordinator.
Victorian Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers, Luke Donnellan, said it was vital to look out for each other over the next few months, "but for people who have no one nearby to support them, we'll make sure they get what they need."
"There is plenty of food for all Victorians so please don't take more than you need. But if you do find yourself isolated, and can't access the basics, we have emergency relief packages for you."
Foodbank Victoria chief executive, David McNamara, said Foodbank Victoria was well-placed to help vulnerable Victorians.
" At this time, when everyone's feeling anxious and uncertain our message is - in partnership with the Government - we're here to protect and support you, as we've been doing for the past 90 years."
The program started on Monday and can be accessed by calling Victoria's dedicated coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398. Alternatively visit dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
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