Resilience NSW has issued a plea to well-meaning community members not to donate unwanted goods to people and families affected by the recent storms and floods.
Commissioner of Resilience NSW, Shane Fitzsimmons said it was critical that people didn’t take or send unrequested items into storm or flood-impacted areas.
“Every time there is a crisis we see community members standing up to help neighbours and strangers alike,” Mr Fitzsimmons said.
“This community spirit is an inspiring and uniquely Australian trait that we want to encourage, but we need people to do it in the manner that will ensure local charities and recovery organisations aren’t inundated with donations they don’t need,” he said.
“The best way people can help communities in times of need is via the official donations channels.”
Mr Fitzsimmons asked people who wanted to donate goods or financial support to take advantage of the established arrangements between the State Government and national non-for-profit GIVIT.
The Commissioner said the State and GIVIT would work together, alongside charities to assess and advise what critical and immediate material support was needed.
He said the non-profit would also assist with managing donated money and offers of goods and services.
“Our arrangement with GIVIT allows councils, outreach teams, local charities and community groups to tell us exactly what’s needed,” he said.
“Then, we work to meet these needs through an online warehouse or by purchasing requested items locally using donated funds.”
Mr Fitzsimmons said people could also make financial donations to the Red Cross flood appeal.
Further information on the GIVIT storm and flood appeal can be accessed at this PS News link and the Red Cross flood appeal at this link.
