Our Impact
How We Help
Supporting South Australians experiencing unexpected and chronic illness through practical, financial and emotional assistance.
Looking for support?
How patients, families and friends can seek assistance
If you or someone you love is going through an unexpected or chronic illness, we understand how overwhelming things can feel. We are here to help, and we work hand in hand with SA Health organisations to make sure support reaches the people who need it most.
We partner with SA Health
All referrals to the Trust come directly from SA Health organisations who know their patients and their circumstances.
Speak to your care team
Ask your social worker, nurse or treating team at your SA Health organisation whether a referral to the Trust may be right for you.
Support that reaches you
Once referred, we work quickly and compassionately to provide practical assistance during your recovery.
Fair, respectful and consistent access
To keep things fair and respectful for everyone, we only ever accept referrals through SA Health organisations. We trust their care teams to identify who is best placed to receive assistance, and we do not influence or take part in decisions about who they refer. If you think you may be eligible, the best first step is a warm conversation with your SA Health care team.
How we help
Examples of Assistance Provided
The Trust provides support by paying service providers directly, so patients can focus on their recovery.
Emergency Response
Foodbank, Woolworths grocery vouchers or Cabcharge vouchers.
Enabling Continuing Hospital Visits & Treatment
Car registrations and Woolworths petrol vouchers.
Promoting Independence
Gopher wheelchairs, house aids, equipment chairs and furnishings, safety and security alarms, footwear removal, relocation.
Personal Health & Hygiene
House cleaning and gardening, cooling and heating.
Reduce Financial Stress
Bill payments.
$1,500
maximum support per patient each year
Considered on individual circumstances
The items above are examples only. Every application is considered on its own individual circumstances, and the Trustees carefully decide which benefits are most appropriate and which services they are able to assist with. Their decision is final, and assistance is provided up to a maximum of $1,500 per patient each year. In certain critical situations, the Trust may also be able to refer patients to other organisations that could offer further help.
Our Impact
For more than 125 years, the Louisa DaCosta Trust has stood beside South Australians facing illness and hardship by offering practical financial relief and compassionate support when people need it most. From modest beginnings built on Louisa's enduring bequest, that legacy of care continues to grow, reaching further into our communities and touching more lives each year.
125+
Years Supporting South Australians
Thousands
Of Lives Assisted Since 1898
Ongoing
Financial Practical Support
Growing
Network of Healthcare Referrers
Make a Donation
The generosity of our community makes our work possible. Every donation helps South Australians facing hardship access the practical and financial support they need during difficult times.