By Brendan Rees
Casey’s 2020 Citizen of the Year, Bassir Qadiri, has stepped up during the coronavirus pandemic by distributing free food vouchers to the community’s vulnerable.
The funding for the vouchers became available after an event organised by the Bakhtar Cultural Association was cancelled for later this year.
Mr Qadiri, who is the chairman of the Association, which represents the Afghan community in Victoria, said he saw it as his duty to put the $1500 funds to good use.
“This is such an unfortunate event and we’re all in this together,” he said. “We will do what we can to help.”
The vouchers have been given to individuals living with a disability, senior members, and those experiencing homelessness in the community.
The Association also has accredited professional interpreters and translators that are happy to provide information to the vulnerable during the crisis.
Residents are also referred to government websites where they can access the latest Covid-19 information in their respective languages.
“They really appreciated this initiative as they had limited access to most of the information due to language barriers,” Mr Qadiri said.
“We have also contacted over 400 members who are registered with us, just to see how they are doing and holding up emotionally and mentally.”
For people who required food relief, Mr Qadiri said vouchers were still available. For more information contact 0435 945 591 or info@bakhtar.org.au.
