Encompass calls on locals to help clothe the community

A CLOTHING drive running for the month of July is calling on locals to donate new or preloved clothing to provide assistance to vulnerable members of the community.

Clothing the Community is organised by Encompass Community Services, working in partnership with WorkSafe and BayFM.

Fritzie Punsalang from Encompass said last year they received around 3,500 kilograms of good quality clothing donation, which provided clothing assistance to about 75 families per week, most of them in high need demographics (particularly women and children fleeing from domestic violence).

“Bunnings Leopold, who has been a proud supporter of Encompass, is involved this year as a drop off point,” she said.

“They have been receiving overwhelming donations and we cannot thank the community enough for supporting this campaign, year in and year out.

“It just goes to show that when you put a call out to the community, they are always there, ready to give a helping hand.”

The campaign calls on the community to donate new or preloved clothing, which includes jackets, beanies, gloves, warm winter clothing, blankets, footwear, scarves, bags and accessories.

Some people donate clothes that they’ve made themselves.

There are drop-off points across Geelong, including Bunnings Leopold, the Encompass head office on the river end of Pakington Street, Bay FM on Moorabool Street and WorkSafe at 1 Malop Street in Geelong.