Donate responsibly to flood-affected communities

Source: Resilience NSW

PLEA TO DONATE RESPONSIBLY TO FLOOD-AFFECTED COMMUNITIES

Well meaning community members are being urged not to donate unwanted goods to NSW communities affected by recent storms and floods.

People wanting to donate goods or financial support are asked to take advantage of the established arrangements between the NSW Government and national non-for-profit GIVIT.

People can also make financial donations to the Red Cross flood appeal.

The NSW Government and GIVIT will work together alongside charities to assess and advise what critical and immediate material support is needed. They will also assist with managing donated money and offers of goods and services.

Resilience NSW Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said it was critical that people don’t take or send unrequested items into storm and flood-impacted areas.

“Every time there is a crisis we see community members standing up to help neighbours and strangers alike,” Mr Fitzsimmons said.

“This community spirit is an inspiring and uniquely Australian trait that we want to encourage, but we need people to do it in the manner that will ensure local charities and recovery organisations aren’t inundated with donations they don’t need.”

“The best way people can help communities in times of need is via the official donations channels.”

“Our arrangement with GIVIT allows councils, outreach teams, local charities and community groups to tell us exactly what’s needed. Then, we work to meet these needs through an online warehouse or by purchasing requested items locally using donated funds.”

“We will continue to support communities for as long as it takes them to recover from these storms and floods.”

Donate and learn more about GIVIT’s storm and flood appeal at givit.org.au/storms-and-flooding, or donate at the Red Cross flood appeal at redcross.org.au/floodsappeal.

To connect with a Customer Care specialist, call Service NSW on 13 77 88.

Related news