To help local people experiencing disadvantage during these difficult times, EastLink has given $100,000 to Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC).

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on the Victorian economy, increasing unemployment and underemployment, and many businesses have closed.

EastLink Corporate Affairs Manager Doug Spencer-Roy said, “EastLink recognises that some local people living in the EastLink corridor have been directly affected by the pandemic and are experiencing financial hardship, mental health issues and family violence.”

This donation is the second in a series of six $100,000 donations that Eastlink will make over the coming months to help affected communities in its corridor.

ECLC welcomes EastLink’s initiative to provide financial assistance to community service providers to support vulnerable people during these difficult times.

ECLC CEO Michael Smith said ECLC is extremely pleased that Eastlink understands the challenges that our communities are facing and has chosen to support vital services for people with additional vulnerability through this time.

“As we enter 2021, the social and economic effects of the pandemic are continuing to greatly impact our communities.

“ECLC will use the funds to increase its legal, advocacy and education support to priority communities. The additional services will focus on women and children experiencing family violence, older people at risk of elder abuse, people experiencing mental health issues, and culturally diverse communities,” said Michael.

So far this year, EastLink has donated a total of $200,000 to community service providers.

EastLink is the 39 kilometre tollway in Melbourne’s east, connecting the Eastern, Monash, Frankston and Peninsula Link freeways. EastLink is Melbourne’s fastest and safest freeway.

Above L-R: Christine Cowin (ECLC), Doug Spencer-Roy (EastLink) with Janet Matton, Michael Smith, and Donna Askew from ECLC in front of EastLink’s Mullum Mullum Tunnel in Ringwood.