Hand-outs show We Care

By Shaun Inguanzo
ALMOST 1500 underprivileged residents throughout Greater Dandenong benefited from a food and clothing hand-out last weekend.
As Christmas approaches, the Mulgrave-based We Care Community Services hosted its Helping Hand Day last Saturday at the Faith! Christian Church in North Dandenong.
More than 800 people were handed a variety of food hampers, quality clothing and were treated to a sausage sizzle, We Care spokesman Lino D’Costa said.
“The purpose of this event is to provide much needed assistance to individuals and families suffering hardship,” he said.
“Basic items (were handed out) including food hampers, good quality clothing for men, women, children and babies, children’s shoes, stationery packs and new toys.”
Mr D’Costa said from the 800 people receiving aid, health care cards and pension cards showed that up to 1,430 would benefit when family members returned home with their goods.
He said the twice yearly event, in May and November, was rapidly growing in popularity.
“We had over 100 people line up before 7.30am for an event promoted to be opening at 10am,” he said.
“And people were inquiring when the next event was on.”
Mr D’Costa said the demand was also catered for during the year.
“We Care assists 70 to 80 people each week with food hampers and clothing at its Helping Hand Centre at 109 Springvale Road, Springvale.
“This centre is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and the contact number there is 9574 2433.”
He said We Care would hold similar events in Cranbourne and Springvale this month.