Amidst the unfolding horror of Australia’s bushfire nightmare which has so far claimed at least 24 lives, the very best of human nature has also been on display across the country.
The wider community has rallied around those affected by the disaster to offer practical help where appropriate, and by donating huge amounts of money and products.
In Victoria, a convoy of 150 trucks driven by volunteers, dubbed the ‘army of angels’, has hit the road to deliver essential supplies to fire-scarred towns in Victoria. The ABC reports that the trucks headed for the East Gippsland region are loaded with hay for animals, food, clothes and toiletries.
Malcolm Leys, from East Gippsland Livestock Exchange, is organising the convoy which is bound for communities like Buchan and Omeo in the fire-ravaged region.
“We’re taking everything from dog food, cat food, sheep feed, hay, toothbrushes, you name it,” Mr Leys told the ABC. “It’s been such a wonderful response.”
Stories of suffering and loss in all states and territories have provoked a massive outpouring of goodwill, and a desire to do whatever possible to assist. However, with so many people suffering and with so many places in need of help, it can be difficult for those who wish to give back to know what the best way to do so is.
The ABC reports that the needs of first responders and victims are great and varied and it’s the services and charities on the frontline which are best placed to know what is needed and where.
Monetary donations can be one of the most useful ways to help. For those with money to give, donations to the Salvation Army, the Australian Red Cross and state-based brigades like the NSW Rural Fire Service will go towards bushfire relief.
The Red Cross say, while it is heartened by incredible tokens of kindness and generosity — as people offer foods, clothes and open up their homes — it is not in a position to take and distribute these items.
“Our experience with emergencies shows that donations of money, where possible, help affected communities recover sooner,” the charity told the ABC. “This is because people can make their own choices — including purchasing the goods they need for their own families.”
However, the organisation says it will gratefully accept goods like clothing at its retail stores, where the funds raised from selling the items can go towards their work, including bushfire relief.
Charities like Givit specialise in goods, but act as a ‘charity broker’ to avoid the trap of unwanted, random items. The exact items people need are listed via charities and the public can match that or register the items they have, in case someone can use them.
Of course, the fires have also had a devastating effect on wildlife, and people wishing to support the animal rescue effort are advised that cash donations are always welcome but there is also a need for physical items. Possum boxes, pellets for livestock and native animal milk replacer are among the items on the RSPCA‘s wish list for its bushfire donation drive.
NSW Wildlife Information and Rescue Education Service (WIRES) a not-for-profit where trained volunteers rehabilitate injured wildlife, is also accepting donations to help pay for things including food, medical supplies and vet fees.
In coming weeks and months after the immediate threat has passed, there will be no shortage of communities in desperate need of physical help to get themselves back on their feet. No doubt, grey nomads and many other sectors of the Australian family will be once again step up to do what they can.
Hi my suggestion could be, to have caravan clubs to holiday in the regions affected, don’t take full freezers/ fridges buy local support the business cafes bowling alleys etc