Gisborne residents have put pen to paper this month and checked in on their friends and loved ones through a prepaid postcard initiative.
Australia Post and Beyond Blue have joined forces again to distribute four million prepaid ‘connection postcards’ to households across the country.
The postcards will primarily be delivered to regional and rural households, giving residents the opportunity to send a personalised and handwritten postcard for free.
The Gisborne Post Office team got involved in the initiative as the postcards started to arrive in the community.
Australia Post engagement and community manager Tanny Mangos said they are delighted to continue the partnership and connect millions of Australians.
“Feeling connected plays an important role in our mental health and wellbeing,” Ms Mangos said.
“In an increasingly digital world, taking the time to write a note to a friend or loved one reminds them you are thinking of them and is often cherished.”
Beyond Blue chief executive Georgie Harman said the partnership plays a significant role in sharing important mental health messages.
“Since the start of our partnership… 11 million postcards have been delivered to households across the country,” Ms Harman said.
“Almost everyone experiences loneliness at some stage in their lives, especially those living in rural and remote communities, which is why initiatives like this one are so important.
“[It] represents a powerful gesture of support, enabling Australians to reach out, check in, and remind one another of the strength that lies in supporting a friend or family member.
“The postcards include a list of tips for looking after your mental health and we encourage everyone to keep the tips in a prominent space in your home… as a helpful reminder.”
