HUNDREDS of people in the region are struggling to afford Christmas this year, with not-for-profit donation platform GIVIT registering the highest ever amount of hardship for the festive season.
Simple donations of groceries, fuel vouchers and small gifts are requested for donation through GIVIT for families experiencing hardship due to the cost-of-living crisis or escaping domestic and family violence.
“It’s no secret that a lot of Australians are doing it tough right now,” said GIVIT national manager Christina Spehr. “We have never had so many requests for assistance on our Christmas Appeal, with over 200 donation requests in Shepparton and over 20,000 around the country.”
Christina said that for many people, staying safe over the Christmas season comes at a cost.
“People experiencing homelessness or violence over the holidays often struggle to afford the basic essentials they need to live, let alone gifts or festive food,” Christina said.
“For example, we are assisting a grandmother in Shepparton who supports her three grandchildren, she is experiencing severe financial hardship and is requesting the donation of small toys to give as gifts to her grandchildren this Christmas.”
GIVIT works with 23 charity partners in Shepparton to ensure people doing it tough get what they need, when they need it.
“We’re working with lots of charities in Shepparton who are putting together hampers for families in hardship this Christmas,” said Christina. “These small donations will allow people who are struggling to cook Christmas lunch or give their children a gift this year.”
“A simple donation can be the reason someone smiles this Christmas so please visit GIVIT.org.au to find out how you can help.”
