The purchase of new computing equipment, through the support of the SA Power Networks Community Grants program, will ensure the ongoing delivery of high-quality, free telehealth services for parents going through one of the most difficult times in their lives.  

Red Tree Foundation (previously rebranded from SIDS and Kids SA) is a small not-for-profit charity that provides free grief counselling and bereavement support and care to South Australian families who have experienced the sudden and unexpected death of a baby or child. 

Liza Jankowski, CEO Red Tree Foundation, says the support/care at the most difficult time in a parent’s life can be lifesaving. 

“The death of a child is the absolute worst time in a parent’s life and can result in significant distress,” said Lisa.  

“Our care and crisis support can stabilise heightened emotions and thoughts in the short term, thereby reducing suicide risk.” 

Lisa says they applied for one of our Community Grants after the pandemic saw a huge increase in referrals, resulting in the need for an expansion of counselling options to ensure parents had continued access to services during lockdowns and restrictions.  

“Offering telehealth was something quite new for our organisation but was so important during COVID times.   

“Even with our return to pre-pandemic life, telehealth counselling sessions are now an integral part of our service and allow our clients flexibility and choice over how they receive support. 

“The introduction of telehealth has also been incredibly beneficial for our regional clients, who in the past, might not have been able to access our services.”  

The grant has gone towards the purchase of new high-definition webcams – ensuring counsellors can facilitate high quality telehealth sessions with their clients.  

“Since receiving the grant, our counsellors have delivered 18 telehealth grief counselling sessions using our brand new equipment. 

“What an amazing gift SA Power Networks have given to these families through the grants program.” 

The Red Tree Foundation relies heavily on grants and the generosity of the community to make donations or support various fundraising activities to provide free services to the community. 

Learn more about Red Tree Foundation on their website.

The successful initiative was part of our inaugural Community Grants Program, which had over 120 applications for projects responding to four focus areas: keeping the community safe; supporting SA Power Networks customers and community; supporting a sustainable SA; and supporting innovation for future growth.  

For the full list of grant recipients, go to SA Power Networks Community Grants 2022.