We can all help

Each of us has a gift to give.  It may be a talent, a bathroom cabinet bursting with hotel toiletries we could donate, our understanding, a cash donation, or it could be our time.

Here in Victoria, we are facing an inconceivable tragedy.  It’s so great we may feel helpless.  Everyone I speak with wants to help in some practical way.

I’ve heard so many heartwarming stories of people reaching out to help in small and large ways.

There’s the counsellor who has offered help to grief-stricken and shocked victims.  There’s the equine vet who is helping injured horses and with stabling.  There’s the well-travelled businesswoman who’s donating her vast collection of hotel toiletries.  There’s the lone man with his barbecue who went to feed the evacuees, and the butchers who’ve donated the meat.  There are those who’ve prayed.  There are those who’ve reconnected with old friends and are so grateful for survival.

We can all help.  Here are some suggestions…

AAPO (Australasian Association of Professional Organisers) President, Wendy Davie, put out a call to members for help and received an immediate response.  Are you a member of an organisation that could help in any way?

One of the AAPO members, Lysa Wheelan, from Presenting Homes, let us know about a warehouse collating relief parcels at Lot 7 Henderson Road, Rowville from 8 -5 every day this week.  Phone Andrew on 0409 944 220.  Items can also be dropped at Unit 48, 1508 Centre Road, Clayton.

Around the country this Friday, February 13th, Coles Supermarkets will donate their profits to the government’s Bushfire Appeal Fund in partnership with the Red Cross.

Take good quality goods to your local Salvation Army store.  Check locations here.

Donate to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal online or by phoning 1800 811 700.

Please donate carefully.  Sadly, The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is warning of potential scams as people prepare to donate to the various bushfire appeals.  It says people’s generosity was exploited by scammers during the 2003 Canberra bushfires and the Boxing Day tsunami.  The ACCC says people should use their common-sense and refrain from sending money or giving details to anyone who is not known and trusted.

And finally, if you know of someone affected by these bushfires, whether they live in affected areas, have become homeless, are helping to put out the fires or are helping the recovery effort, let them know you care.  Believe me, your kind words help.