Giving appeal a huge success

THE Geelong community has dug deep and raised more than $109,000 for local children, families and individuals facing hardship during this festive season.

The 23rd Geelong Giving Tree Appeal was jointly led by Meli and the Sexual Assault and Family Violence (SAFV) Centre, and was supported by Cultura and Wathuarong.

Every dollar raised through the month-long campaign will be

converted into e-gift cards and distributed to those in need.

This year’s fundraising will mean a brighter Christmas for an estimated 2396 people, including children.

Meli chief executive officer Grant Boyd expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the local community for the support.

“Year after year, I am in awe of the generosity and sense of human spirit within this region. To everyone who donated, bought a Kindness Chocolate or ran a fundraiser at their business or kindergarten, we thank you,” he said.

“A huge thank you also goes to our generous partners who play a big role in allowing this appeal to make such a difference to our community.

“Meli, alongside other local organisations, can now bring joy to those households and families who need it most.”

SAFV Centre CEO Kerriann Campbell-Jones also expressed her appreciation.

“Thank you to the Geelong community for the incredible kindness you have shown in supporting the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal,” she said.

“Your kindness will show the people receiving e-gift cards that they aren’t alone and that their community cares for them.

“Our clients will be able to choose how they would like to spend the funds, which provides them with a sense of empowerment and dignity.”