Donating to emergency relief charities

If you wish to help people affected by the recent flooding and storm affected region of the Hawkesbury, consider donating money to reputable charities and organisations.

The state government has requested people wanting to assist flood-affected areas to use not-for-profit organisation GIVIT.

The government-partnered organisation provides outlines of the material support required in the region, and minimises the amount of non-essential items from entering the region, and is managing all forms of donations during the recovery process.

"We need to ensure local charities and recovery organisations aren't inundated with donations they don't need," said NSW Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) have outlined how people's generosity and compassion can be taken advantage of during times of crisis.

ACCC spokesperson has warned to: “never send money or give personal information, credit card details or online account details to anyone you don't know or trust.”

If you're considering making a donation or wanting to help, reputable organisations providing assistance to flood affected communities include:

• The Salvation Army Providing assistance to evacuees and volunteers currently in evacuation centres.
• The Australian Red Cross Providing aid and financial assistance to affected individuals across the region. Blood donations are organised by the Red Cross, with eligibility, appointments and donation centre information accessible online.
• St Vincent de Paul Society Providing food, clothing, household goods, financial assistance via their flood appeal, alongside providing long-term emotional support to affected individuals.
• Food Bank - Positioned as Australia's largest hunger relief charity, Food Bank are providing food and essential supplies to families who have been evacuated from their homes. $35 donations provide families with hampers containing essential food items and drinking water.
• Animal charity organisations. Lap Warmers Cat Rescue in the Hawkesbury were providing Flood crisis care packages available with limited resources to assist animals in need of food and related animal supplies. The RSPCA are also requiring donations of bedding and blankets to provide shelter for animals in need.
• NSW Farmers and Rural Aid - Provides assistance to farmers and primary producers with financial services, goods and services to assist in the smooth operation of their farms and business operations during times of natural disasters.
• Donate time - The SES trains new volunteers for three months to prepare them to assist in future relief efforts in state emergencies such as storms and floods.

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