Narromine’s Albert Penson calls a 100-year-old woman on the four mornings a week she does not have visitors.
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They have become firm friends despite not knowing each other’s surnames or addresses.
The 82-year-old is an enthusiastic volunteer with the Australian Red Cross Telecross program that keeps a check on the safety, security and well-being of frail, aged, disabled and isolated people through a daily phone call.
Currently, Mr Penson is waiting to see if “Margaret” will be alone on Christmas Day and in need of a phone call. For eight years the affable volunteer has helped the Red Cross preserve the independence of vulnerable people and gone to their aid when required. Failure to answer the phone prompts an emergency response.
At the Red Cross office at Dubbo Neighbourhood Centre Jocelyn Morris reports of 150 clients in an area covering 85 per cent of NSW. Call centres in Sydney and Newcastle cover about 110 clients with about 65 volunteers available to look after the rest. To donate to Red Cross visit www.redcross.org.au.