UnitingCare Tasmania chief executive Lindy O’Neill and Bendigo Bank’s Keridan Taylor at the launch
UnitingCare Tasmania and the Bendigo Bank have launched a partnership aimed at making this winter a little warmer for struggling Tasmanians.
From 16 April, all Tasmanians are encouraged to donate unused blankets, coats, hats, scarves and gloves at any Bendigo Bank branch in southern Tasmania.
UnitingCare will collect the donated items and distribute them to those in need this winter.
UnitingCare Tasmania CEO Lindy O’Neill said the appeal offered a practical way for people to support struggling Tasmanians this winter.
“We all know how cold Tasmanian winters can be and this is a good excuse for people to raid their wardrobes for that coat which has not be worn for years or that blanket which is no longer needed and is taking up space at the back of a cupboard.”
Ms O’Neill said many low-income Tasmanians could not afford to operate their heating for long in winter, so the warmth offered by a coat or blanket was a real blessing.
“Some people find themselves in dire financial straits and this can happen or a multitude of reasons.
“Often this is out of the person’s control.”
“This support from Bendigo Bank is greatly appreciated as it will help us make the winter a little warmer for many people.”
Managing director and CEO of Bendigo Bank’s joint venture Community Sector Banking, Greg Peel, said not-for-profits play an important role in the community.
“Not-for-profits like UnitingCare Tasmania are essential for healthy communities, particularly in difficult times such as the coming winter, providing services to those who need it most,” he said.
“Getting behind UnitingCare Tasmania’s blanket drive is not only helping those individuals who receive these generous donations, but showing strong support for UnitingCare Tasmania’s crucial work.”
Mr Peel said Tasmanian community organisations were an integral part of Australia’s not-for-profit sector, which nationally contributes more than $54 billion annually to the economy, helping thousands of people and communities every day.
“Government funding cuts are affecting not-for-profits across Australia, creating strain on their services,” he said.
“We believe diversity in sources of funding, such as impact investing and social enterprise development, is a key factor to help strengthen the not-for-profit sector and meet the demand for social change, reducing reliance on Government funds.’’
Donations can be made at Bendigo Bank branches in Hobart, Glenorchy, Rosny Park, Sorell, Nubeena, Bicheno, Swansea, Kingston, Huonville, Cygnet, Geeveston, Dover and Queenstown.
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