“Uniting helped me make ends meet.”

Published

February 24, 2025

In his younger years, David spent most of his time tending to his 140 acres of land, where Merino sheep would roam freely.  

Like most farms the day began with the crowing of a rooster, David’s personal alarm clock. 

Life on the land can be likened to the changing of seasons. Planting in spring, growth in summer, harvest in autumn and quiet rest during winter. The days are long and weather often unpredictable.    

After years of working on the land, David transitioned to life on the railroads. In his role as a Rail Shunter, David was always on the move. Tasked with moving trains safely between yards and platforms, he was responsible for performing safety checks and connecting train carriages.  

Despite David’s dedication to making his living, retirement has brought about financial challenges. Especially during the cost-of-living crisis he has struggled to make ends meet. 

The past two years David has sought help from Uniting’s Wodonga Emergency Relief program in the form of food and other essential items. Uniting’s Emergency Relief Coordinator, Catherine, says that David is one of many who reach out to the centre for groceries and personal care items.  

Access to these essential items has been a blessing for David during difficult times, and he is grateful for the support. As a way of caring for others in similar circumstances, David has left a legacy to Uniting in his will. 

If you would like to pay it forward and include a gift in your will, please contact: 

Sharon Wangman, Program Lead, Gift in Wills 
T 0435 035 442
E [email protected] 

*The image accompanying this story is for illustrative purposes only. It is not a photo of the person featured in this story. 

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