Geelong Giving Tree Appeal launches

Christmas is a time for joy and celebration, but for many in our community, it can be a difficult time.

This festive season, our region is being asked to share the joy of giving to our community members who need support and kindness more than ever by donating to the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal.

BCYF is once again a collaborative partner with Bethany Community Support and the Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre to raise money for children, young people and families to be able to have some extra funds this festive season, so they can enjoy some much-needed cheer.

The Geelong Giving Tree Appeal calls upon the generosity of the Geelong community to donate funds  to provide gift cards to families and individuals within our community who need a helping hand. With the rising costs of living, the continued effects of COVID and prevalence of sexual and family violence within our community, means the need for support for people who access our services continues to grow.

The recipients of these gift cards includes people experiencing family violence or sexual assault, financial and mental health issues, homelessness, gambling harm and other family relationship hardships. The donated gift cards empower families and individuals living in Geelong and enables them to purchase Christmas gifts and food for their loved ones to share in the joy of Christmas.

The Appeal launched as part of the City of Greater Geelong’s Floating Christmas Tree Sound and Light Show on Saturday 12 November and runs until 6 December.

BCYF CEO Sandy Morrison encouraged people to consider making a donation to the appeal.

“What is wonderful about the Geelong community is that we are known to band together and show compassion and generosity to those who need it most and we are incredibly grateful to the people, businesses and organisations who are able to donate to this fundraising appeal,“ he said.

“We know it has been a challenging few years, and with the cost of living on the rise, we know our most vulnerable will again feel the strain this festive season. By making even a small donation you can contribute to parents buying a present for a child with something on their Santa list or being able to create an extra special meal over the festive season to share with loved ones. These seemingly small acts of kindness make for a brighter Christmas for all.

“Being able to work collaboratively to make Christmas a happier time for children, young people and families across our region supports BCYF’s Christmas wish, which is a community where people are safe, connected and empowered to live well.”

Donate to the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal from 12 November-6 December at geelonggivingtree.com.au