Giving Tree Appeal launches

A TRIO of not-for-profits are encouraging the community to raise funds and share joy with families and individuals who need support and kindness more than ever.
On Monday last week, Bethany Community Support launched the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal in partnership with 93.9 bay FM and in collaboration with Barwon Child, Youth and Family (BCYF) and the Sexual Assault & Family Violence (SAFV) Centre.

The three leading community support organisations based in Geelong have seen increases in the need for services to address issues such as financial hardship. homelessness, relationship difficulties, family violence and sexual assault.

Funds raised will empower families and individuals nominated through local support agencies to purchase gifts and food by receiving a gift card.

Bethany Community Support has been leading the appeal for more than 20 years.

Last year, the first year of the appeal’s collaboration with BCYF and The SAFV Centre raised more than $67,000 for 2,030 vulnerable families and individuals across Geelong and south-west Victoria.

Bethany Community Support chief executive officer Grant Boyd said donating to the appeal would not only support people who have faced serious financial challenges, but would also give hope to those who have experienced trauma, and help them feel connected to the community.

“The Geelong Giving Tree Appeal is your opportunity to share the joy of giving with a family or individual in our community who have faced their most significant hardships this year.

“You’re helping parents to buy their children the present at the top of their Christmas list, or giving someone the chance to buy a present for themselves that they wouldn’t have otherwise afforded.

“Last year the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal supported more than 2,000 families and people and, with your help, we can share the joy of Christmas with even more people.”

BCYF chief executive officer Sandy Morrison said the Geelong community was known for its compassion and generosity and the organisations were grateful to those who were able to donate to this appeal.

“We know the ongoing challenges of COVID-19 have been particularly difficult for the most vulnerable families in our community. By making even a small donation you will be helping create a brighter Christmas for all this year.

“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.”

The SAFV Centre chief executive officer Helen Bolton said the full impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the community was yet to be seen, but there had been a significant increase and exacerbation of family violence and sexual assault over the past 12 months.

“For those impacted by violence, a sense of community, inclusion and belonging can make a big impact to their trauma.

“The Geelong Giving Tree Appeal is a fantastic way for the generous Geelong community to show their support and share the joy of giving this Christmas.”

Donate to the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal until December 7 online at the Geelong Giving Tree website.