Special event to launch Asian Family Services

Special event to launch Asian Family Services at the Problem Gambling Foundation

Asian Family Services at the Problem Gambling Foundation will be officially opened by Hon Pansy Wong, Minister for Ethnic Affairs, at a special event being held on Friday 29 October at 3.30pm at the Problem Gambling Foundation’s Auckland office.

Formerly under the banner of Asian Services, free, professional treatment and support has been provided for problem gamblers and their families since 1998.

John Wong, Asian Family Services Director, says strong demand from the Asian community prompted them to look at expanding their existing service and offering help to families on a broader range of issues, not just problem gambling.

“We are delighted to be able to expand our service and offer a ‘one stop shop’ for the Asian community,” he says.

“Although we will still be providing treatment and support for problem gambling, we can now offer help with other issues such as budgeting advice, communication skills, stress management and assistance to families that have recently moved to New Zealand.”

Asian Family Services provide free, professional and confidential counselling, information and education for individuals, couples, families and groups in Korean, Cantonese, Mandarin, Vietnamese and Thai.

John Wong says part of the service on offer will be providing education in life skills and peer support so that families are able to build positive networks.

“Our vision for Asian Family Services is to have harmonious and healthy lifestyles for families,” he says.

The formal launch of Asian Family Services will take place on Friday 29 October at 3.30pm at the Problem Gambling Foundation National Office, 1st Floor, 128 Khyber Pass Road, Grafton, Auckland.

Free, professional and confidential help and support is available by phoning the Asian Family Hotline 0800 862 342.

ENDS

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