Give a Christmas gift to your community

THE Give Where You Live Foundation is calling on the community to support their 2025 Christmas Appeal and help create a place where everybody thrives through Christmas and beyond.

While plenty of people are celebrating, far too many in the community are struggling to put food on the table or find a safe place to call home, making it one of the most difficult times of the year.

Give Where You Live Foundation chief executive officer Zac Lewis said that with the cost of living making it hard for everyone, those most vulnerable in our community feel the impact.

“The rising cost of living is making it harder for many to afford even the basics.

“Families are skipping meals to pay rent. People are choosing between paying the bills and paying for essential medication and in Geelong, more people than ever are experiencing homelessness.”

The foundation’s recently released Home Truths research report reveals the strain on Geelong’s service system and provides insights into how people to best support people facing homelessness in the community.

Homelessness within the region is rising by 26 per cent, far above the national and state averages.

One of the ways the foundation is working to help the community thrive is through its own Community Choice voucher program.

Community Choice provides access to basic necessities including food, material aid, and support for prescriptions to people experiencing crisis in our community.

“We believe everyone deserves a chance to thrive and experience a bright, joyful Christmas,” Mr Lewis said.

“That’s why we’re working to create a fairer Geelong community and why your support means more than ever.

“A donation to the Christmas Appeal will enable the Give Where You Live Foundation to continue supporting the community through initiatives including our Community Choice voucher program to assist those who may be experiencing homelessness.”

The Give Where You Live Foundation is pleased to have the support of Community Care Chemist, appeal partner, helping to share the spirit of giving.

Thanks to this partnership, all donations to the Christmas Appeal will be doubled from December 2 (up to $7,000).

For more information or to donate, head to givewhereyoulive.com.au

//SPONSORED CONTENT