An organisation that was inspired by using books to help recover from hardship and trauma is among 8 recipients of a grants program focussed on supporting the health and wellbeing of veterans.
Brothers N Books was awarded $25,000 to help it continue its work encouraging veterans experiencing PTSD and other health related issues to read and use the stories to weave into personal book reviews to help with their recovery.

The Oasis Chair, Lieutenant General John Caligari said Brothers N Books was just one example of the many inspirational organisations that had been awarded grants from The Oasis Townsville, a veteran charity focused on the needs of local veterans and their families.

“This is the first year we have run our grants program and we have been very impressed by the calibre of organisations that applied,” Caligari said.

“At the heart of the grants program is our objective to support organisations and programs that help veterans and their families connect and integrate into the community.

“These innovative programs often originate from Ex-ADF members who have had friends and family or, who are themselves going through personal challenges, so they know better than anyone what kind of programs that are practical and work.

“We know from previous experience that this type of funding support has as a ripple effect. The passion and commitment of the groups and organisations just need a little help and the flow-on benefits are substantial.

“Already, Brothers N Books have set up a library at our home base facility at the Village in Oonoonba and we have a constant stream of people coming in to access the books.

“What these programs do is to get our veterans out of their homes and into the community.
“The Oasis provides them with a welcoming place where they can connect with others – often, just having a chat, can make all the difference to someone who is feeling a bit low.

“It is the passion and dedication of the individuals running these organisations that make them meaningful and successful. We are very happy to be able to support these grant recipients just as they will continue to support our veterans thanks to these innovative programs.

Funding for the Community Grants is provided by The Northern Queensland Primary Health Network, a Federal Government initiative.

For more information or to support The Oasis Townsville visit theoasistownsville.org.au

ENDS…

Media contact: Michael Baker; 0417 900 545