New-look Christmas appeal highlights OneCare’s impact

HUNDREDS of residents will be better off this Christmas thanks to a new appeal garnered by OneCare Geelong and a passionate group of volunteers.

OneCare Geelong has launched its new Christmas Giving Appeal, allowing people an opportunity to give a gift to those in the community doing it tough on December 25.

As a result, more than 100 boxes are being distributed to those accessing OneCare essential services, as well as people in the community who are homeless or sleeping rough.

“For many people, Christmas can be an incredibly difficult time,” OneCare Geelong chief executive officer Danielle Leal said.

“There are people in our community who are experiencing social isolation, loneliness, and financial hardship, even more so this Christmas due to COVID-19 and the rising costs of living.

“The impacts for those already experiencing hardships have been devastating. At OneCare, we want to make a difference where we can.”

The appeal invites people to get involved in a number of ways, by financial donation, filling a gift box, and volunteering, which was conducted on Wednesday this week.

Funds raised via direct donation will increase food security via OneCare’s essential foodbank in the lead up to Christmas and a special Christmas Lunch for residents to attend.

Funds will also go towards OneCare Geelong’s important Community Meals program.

Each Christmas gift box is filled with special Christmas items, such as ham, Christmas treats, a thoughtful card and a voucher for an outing or experience.

“By generous donations, we will be able to provide 120 gifts boxes to OneCare participants, filled with special Christmas items, like a ham, Christmas treats, a thoughtful card and a voucher for an outing or experience,” Ms Leal said.

“Giving a gift of an ‘outing’ is an incredibly special thing to do for someone who would not normally be able to access those experiences.

“Many of us will go for a day outing without even thinking twice about it. But for many, this is not an option.

“When it comes to either putting food on the table or paying the electricity bill versus a social outing – the necessities will always trump a privilege.

“And so, we want to provide people with an experience that they would not normally have access to.”

It is estimated by OneCare that it will assist over 600 people this Christmas.

The OneCare Geelong Christmas Appeal received an abundance of support from individuals, organisations, and businesses, namely GMHBA, KaiserCraft, IGA Highton, OneHope Baptist Church, LeisureLink, Costa Asset Management, GIVIT and more.

If you would like to donate or find out more, head to onecaregeelong.org.au