Often in our increasingly frenetic society, family members must balance their careers with both a personal life and the task of caring for loved ones.

As a result, organisations that offer support and assistance for the elderly and people with disabilities become ever more crucial.

Among these, New Care Services stands out as a company dedicated to the care of these two groups.

Lombardi, a lively eighty-year-old from Puglia now living in Moonee Ponds, met with us to share her experience.

With Lombardi at her meticulously kept home were her partner Beniamino Ferro and Antonio Sgro, the administrator and financial director of New Care Services.

Lombardi’s story mirrors the story of many Italian women who emigrated to Australia during the migration boom of the 1960s.

Arriving in Melbourne in 1963 to reunite with her husband, she faced numerous challenges, including several miscarriages and the arduous process of integrating into a new society.

“I was just nineteen and didn’t know anyone, but with my husband’s strength beside me, we managed to build a life here,” Lombardi shared.

“There were many difficult times, especially when we lost our first children, but we never lost hope.

“Adopting Maria and Emanuela was our salvation; they were our light in a dark time.”

Maria and Emanuela are now successful women in their respective careers.

Lombardi has always maintained a strong connection with the Italian community, becoming a reference point for many at the San Marco in Lamis Social Club in Melbourne, where she coordinated the Club’s activities for many years.

Today, despite the challenges, Lombardi continues to actively participate in community life, particularly at the San Marco in Lamis club, where she’s often invited by her longtime friend and club president Sylvia Randazzo.

“Being a part of the Italian community has always been so important to me,” Lombardi said.

“It helped me feel less alone, especially during [my] early years in Australia.

“Even now, I can continue to attend events and be close to my friends.”

Remaining active despite accumulating birthdays is absolutely essential, says Beniamino Ferro.

“When you reach our age, your strength is no longer what it once was,” he said.

“Thanks to the assistance we receive, we’re able to maintain a degree of independence, but with the peace of mind that comes from knowing there is someone we can always count on.”

“Knowing that a loved one is being cared for by professionals provides families with an invaluable peace of mind, allowing them to continue living their lives without undue anxiety,” said Antonio Sgro.