News & Events

For six long months, Anita * didn’t leave the house.

Living with vision impairment and feeling disconnected from the world around her, the once-active 41-year-old became isolated and withdrawn. But today, thanks to personalised support from St George Community, Anita is smiling again – and stepping back into life.

“She’s happy. Really happy,” said her father, Raj *. “To see that spark in her again – it means everything to us.”

Anita has started receiving one-on-one support through St George Community. With a dedicated and highly capable support worker by her side, she’s already walked to the local shops in Hurstville and joined her first Sunshine Group social outing to Karimbla restaurant in Miranda.

“She hadn’t stepped outside since September,” Raj shared. “Now she’s getting dressed, looking forward to things, laughing again. It’s like we’ve got our Anita back.”

The changes go beyond social outings. Anita has begun talking about her long-time love of basketball – and with growing confidence and new connections, she’s starting to imagine playing again. Raj is hopeful that through her new network, she’ll have the support to get back into the sport she once loved.

In addition to social support, Anita is now exploring assistive technology to improve her independence at home. St George Community has connected her with occupational therapists who can help assess and recommend tools to support her reading and everyday activities.

The family discovered St George Community almost by chance, after a relative walked past the Mortdale office. “We reached out straight away. Within days she had support in place. It’s been such a relief.”

Anita is now looking ahead to her next Sunshine Group outing in Bundeena – and whatever comes after that.

“Whether it’s the beach, the shops, or the basketball court – she wants to be part of things again,” said Raj. “This support hasn’t just changed her days – it’s changed her future. I’d say to any family out there that may be unsure of where to turn: don’t wait. Reach out. The right support makes all the difference.”

Nurina Simpson, Operations and Development Manager at St George Community, said this is what the organisation is all about.

“We provide 1:1 support in the home or out in the community to help individuals achieve their personal goals, build social connections, and engage in local activities. Whether it’s catching up with friends, attending local outings, or joining in community events, we’re here to empower people like Anita to live life on their terms.”

ABOUT SUNSHINE GROUP OUTINGS

St George Community’s Sunshine Group is a monthly outing for NDIS participants of all ages who want to get out, socialise, and explore new places. Whether it’s lunch by the water, a trip to a wildlife park, or a ferry ride with friends, these supported group days offer the perfect mix of fun, connection and confidence-building.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?

If you or someone you care for could benefit from one-on-one support or our group outings, we’d love to help.

Call St George Community, NDIS Team Leader, Sandeep Ghimire on (02) 9585 3000 / sandeep.ghimire@stgct.org.au or visit stgct.org.au to learn more about our NDIS services.

*Names have been changed to protect the family’s privacy.