Generous donation at crucial time

SPREADING SOME CHEER... Soroptimist International of Shepparton Inc's Gail Robertson, Katrina Mooney and The Orange Door hub manager, Mary D'Elia, with some of the hampers generously being donated to families in need this Christmas. Photo: Stephanie Holliday

THERE’S no denying that many families have done it tough this year. Record levels of calls for domestic violence support and a social housing crisis are just some indicators of the tough times many people in our community and beyond have faced, in particular, women and children.

The Orange Door is a free service for adults, children and young people who are experiencing or have experienced family violence and families who need extra support with the care of children. Given their working closely with families in crisis, Soroptimist International of Shepparton Inc have come together with some local organisations such as SPC Factory Sales to donate a number of hampers to The Orange Door for them to hand out to those in crisis.

The hampers are well-thought out and contain toiletries, Christmas treats, toys, wrapping paper and even sticky tape.

“Until you’ve lived through something like that yourself, it’s hard to comprehend that women who are escaping volatile situations often leave with absolutely nothing. It’s the little things you don’t think of like toiletries, little snacks for the kids…those are the things that make a world of difference to these families,” said Soroptimists’ Katrina Mooney.

The hampers really will make a world of difference to the recipients with hub manager at The Orange Door, Mary D’Elia, expressing her gratitude for the donation.

“The Soroptimists have been so generous, and we appreciate this lovely initiative. This is incredibly valuable for those in need at this time of year and will definitely help those who need it most.”

SPREADING SOME CHEER… Soroptimist International of Shepparton Inc’s Gail Robertson, Katrina Mooney and The Orange Door hub manager, Mary D’Elia, with some of the hampers generously being donated to families in need this Christmas. Photo: Stephanie Holliday