Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced a $4.5 million funding boost for two Queensland charities hit hard by COVID-19.
Legacy, whose fundraising in the lead-up to Anzac Day has been severely impacted, will receive a $1 million grant.
Lifeline will receive $3.5 million to continue its life saving counselling services.
The Premier said the isolation and anxiety caused by COVID-19 was putting enormous pressure on Lifeline.
“Lifeline provides an important service all the time but especially now,” the Premier said.
Lifeline reports it is receiving:
24,000 calls per week including regional Queensland
At least 40% related to COVID-19 while at the same time
Suffering a 95% reduction in revenues and
Fewer staff because of isolation requirements
Lifeline Group executive Brent McCracken said the funding was very welcome.
“This money will help Lifeline continue its vital work at a time when it is sorely needed,” he said.
The $4.5 million in emergency funding is part of $1.2 billion previously announced to reinforce Queensland Health’s response to COVID-19.
