A devastating bushfire season saw lives lost, thousands of homes destroyed or severely impacted and wildlife perish. It was heartbreaking to witness the apocalyptic scenes from southern New South Wales of people escaping to the beach to await evacuation. While still coming to terms with what happened, the communities affected showed an immediate determination to rebuild their lives and homes.
GIVIT rolled up its sleeves to meet the challenge of coordinating the almost overwhelming - but much welcomed - generosity of Australian and overseas donors responding to our Bushfire Appeal.
Mogo, in Eurobodalla, was one of the towns badly impacted by the fires. Hundreds of homes and many businesses burnt down, with the Mogo Aboriginal Preschool's bus also a casualty. When the bus is out of operation, 70% of students are unable to attend school. Getting new and safety compliant transport back on the road was imperative. GIVIT worked alongside the non-for-profit Campbell Page, which provides the free transport service to those needing financial assistance. GIVIT donated 17 car seats, ensuring the youngest students could get back to school, and get some normality back into their lives.
A 100km further down the coast from Mogo, GIVIT was also able to assist in Bermagui, where the home to three generations of an aboriginal family was lost to the fires. Using donated funds GIVIT was able to purchase new appliances from local retailers, and along with furniture donated by generous individuals, helped the family set up again after losing all their belongings. Generous donors also came forward to replace the children’s Christmas presents.
You can still help people affected by devastating bushfires by donating to our Bushfire Appeal and 100% of the donation GIVIT receives will purchase what's needed, where it's needed most.
