Kindness of spirit has shone through across the region with the annual Geelong Giving Tree Appeal raising more than $109,000 to support those experiencing hardship this festive season.
Now in its 23rd year, the Appeal supports individuals and families seeking support through Meli, The Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre (The SAFV Centre), Cultura and Wathaurong.
This year’s exceptional fundraising total will mean a brighter Christmas for approximately 2,396 people, including adults and children, who will receive e-gift vouchers to put presents under the tree or food on the table.
Meli CEO Grant Boyd expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the way the community had got behind the Giving Tree Appeal at a time when cost-of-living pressures were taking a toll.
“Year after year, I am in awe of the generosity and sense of human spirit within this region. To everyone who donated, bought a Kindness Chocolate or ran a fundraiser at their business or kindergarten, we thank you” Mr Boyd said.
“A huge thank you also goes to our generous partners who play a big role in allowing this Appeal to make such a difference to our community.
“Meli, alongside other local organisations, can now bring joy to those households and families who need it most.”
Kerriann Campbell-Jones, CEO of The SAFV Centre, also expressed her appreciation and gratitude.
“Thank you to the Geelong community for the incredible kindness you have shown in supporting the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal,” Ms Campbell-Jones said.
“Your kindness will show the people receiving e-gift cards that they aren’t alone and that their community cares for them.
“Our clients will be able to choose how they would like to spend the funds which provides them with a sense of empowerment and dignity.”
The Geelong Giving Tree Appeal was supported by generous partners including Anthony Costa Foundation, Cleanaway, City of Greater Geelong, West Carr & Harvey, Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, GMHBA, Westfield, APCO Foundation, Denis Walter Carols by the Bay, The Paddock Bakery, as well as media partners Times News Group and Bay 93.9.
Meli would also like to sincerely thank the following organisations for their continued support of our clients at Christmas time; Goodway Print, Share the Dignity, Good Box, Gourmet Pantry, Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre, SiroVilla, Westfield Geelong, Thread Together and Pixeld. Your kindness has brought joy at a time that can be difficult for many people in our community.
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