Geelong Giving Tree Appeal

The Geelong Giving Tree Appeal Initiative

The Geelong community have always looked after each other in times of need, especially at Christmas time.

Established in 2000, the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal (formerly the Bethany Giving Tree Appeal) has been providing much needed support to thousands of local children, families and individuals at Christmas time, when many people are experiencing their greatest hardships.

In 2020, this annual toy appeal transformed into a fundraising appeal, with funds raised converted to Gift Cards for families. This proved to be popular from recipients, as it enabled them to purchase special gifts for their families and provided a sense of empowerment.  The Geelong Giving Tree has remained a fundraiser ever since.

In 2024, with the cost-of-living crisis and increase in housing/rent costs continuing, more people are contacting Meli seeking support. We are now seeing new families who have never had to seek help, contact us.

Meli, in partnership with The Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre (SAFV Centre), run the Appeal to help alleviate some of the hardships these families and individuals experience. All funds raised through the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal are converted into e-gift cards and distributed to families and individuals in need.

The Geelong Giving Tree Appeal is currently seeking funding partners and fundraising partners to help us launch the Appeal again in November 2024.  If you, or your organisation would like to donate or raise funds in November or December this year, please contact us at:  giveback@meli.org.au to discuss.

An update on this year’s Appeal and how you can be involved will be refreshed in October this year…so watch this space!