Change a local family’s Christmas

BETHANY Community Support has launched the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal to spread joy to families in need this festive season.
In partnership with 93.9 Bay FM, and in collaboration with Barwon Child, Youth and Family (BCYF) and the Sexual Assault and Family Violence (SAFV) Centre, it is the first time organisers are hoping to raise $100,000 instead of receiving donated gifts.
Local community support agencies nominate families to receive donated gifts, which will be in the form of gift cards this year to keep communities COVID-safe.
“This year more families need our support and we hope our community can help us raise $100,000 to change Christmas for local families in need,” Bethany Community Support chief Grant Boyd said.
“In the past three years alone, we had more than 32,000 gifts donated. While we can’t accept gifts this year, we hope the community will be just as generous when donating funds.
“Think about a child, parent or individual you’d love to see smile this Christmas, and donate what a gift for them might cost. For some families, this might be the only way they can afford a gift for under the tree.”
BCYF chief executive officer Sandy Morrison said the organisation was delighted to partner with Bethany, 93.9 Bey FM and the SAFV Centre to launch the 2020 Geelong Giving Tree Appeal.
“Being able to work collaboratively to make Christmas a happier time for children, young people and families supports BCYF’s vision of a community where people are safe, connected and empowered to live well,”
“Geelong is known for its compassion and generosity and we are so grateful to those who are able to donate to this appeal. Even a small donation will help create a brighter Christmas for our community.”
Helen Bolton, CEO, The SAFV Centre, said, “We are proud to collaborate with Bethany, 93.9 Bay FM and BCYF to ensure local families feel supported by the community and can share in the Christmas spirit.
“It has been a challenging year for everyone, but for those experiencing sexual assault or family violence, the impact of COVID has been profound. Receiving a gift card through the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal will bring joy to many this Christmas.”
Donate to the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal from 16 November-1 December at geelonggivingtree.org.au.