Nationwide support starts in Bendigo

A BENDIGO man has acted as the catalyst for a nationwide support initiative between Woolworths, Federal MPs and community organisations.

Max Blume is the coordinator of Uniting Emergency Relief in Kangaroo Flat, and after approaching local Federal member Lisa Chesters for help with the organisation’s toy drive, his call has been answered across the country.

Woolworths will now donate 150 vouchers worth $250 each to an organisation nominated by a Federal MP.

Last month Uniting put the call out for donations to their annual toy drive and, in the first year heading the operation alone since the shutdown of the Forest Street facility, Mr Blume said he’d been blown away by the community’s generosity.

“I’ve never seen support like this, especially with the coronavirus around. It’s been absolutely magnificent. I couldn’t say enough about the people of Bendigo and what they’ve done,” he said.

With donations coming from as far as Wycheproof, Mr Blume said he was incredibly proud of his staff who provide critical support to families and people in need.

Customer service manager at Woolworths in Lansell Plaza Michelle Olsson said she’d seen customers doing it tough in the lead up to Christmas and felt good handing over the voucher.

“There’s a lot of families that have really struggled this year with the ongoing COVID situation and at this time of year families want to create great memories with their little children,” she said.

“It’s really good for us to be involved in the community and people can see we’re part of it and willing to help out when we can.”

Ms Chesters said she nominated the local Uniting branch as the money could be put towards the toy drive or their community pantry.

“It’s exciting that the idea actually came from Max and he’s had an influence on the whole country,” she said.