In the enduring spirit of compassion and resilience, the Bega Valley Community Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) is appealing for community support as it prepares for difficult times ahead.
Established in the aftermath of the devastating 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires, this perpetual fund guided by the Social Justice Advocates of the Sapphire Coast (SJA) and Bega Valley Shire Council, serves as a lifeline during times of crisis.
SJA Co Chair, Mick Brosnan said the Disaster Relief Fund is the embodiment of unwavering hope in the Bega Valley Shire.
"This vital fund shows what can be achieved when the community works as one," Mr Brosnan said.
"As the bush around us continues to regenerate following a prolonged period of high rainfall and with dry and hot conditions predicted, we turn to the community to help us prepare for tougher times.
"It's the ebb and flow of heat and rain that makes this part of the world so incredibly beautiful, however when these conditions impact on the people who call this place home, we need funds in the bank to help instantly.
"Please consider donating now. Each contribution, regardless of size, carries profound impact and helps us to plan and fund programs for the people who need them the most."
Bega Valley Shire Deputy Mayor, Liz Seckold said the positive impact of the Disaster Relief Fund continues to be felt among the community.
"With fires and floods behind us, it would be easy to think that our community is healed. While a great deal of healing has happened thanks in part to the DRF, for many people there is still a long way to go," Cr Seckold said.
"This is why hearing of ongoing projects that started from earlier funded programs means so much to us.
"In Cobargo I was delighted to hear of the Sparks of Love project that grew organically from the DRF-supported Sanctuary Project.
"Here we have a group of local women who get together to talk and sew quilts for people experiencing difficulties.
"This group ignites sparks of hope and resilience in the hearts of its participants. Carrying the memories of the fires, these individuals find solace, strength and accelerated healing in a welcoming and creative environment.
"Since its inception, the DRF has raised over $761,000 and provided vital assistance to more than 400 local individuals and 12 organisations. We want to be there, ready for when help on a grand scale is again needed, so please consider donating to the Bega Valley Community Disaster Relief Fund today."
For more information, you can visit the Bega Valley Community Disaster Relief Fund webpage and download a copy of our annual report.
Tax deductible donations can be made via bank deposit, online, or at a local bank branch.
Account Name: SJA Disaster Relief Fund
BSB: 633 000
Account Number: 171 166 317
