By CASEY NEILL
A timely $10,000 donation will help Springvale Benevolent Society to help those in need through winter.
The colder months are the busiest time for the volunteer group, which helps more than 600 people each year.
It’s relying on donations more than ever following Federal Government cuts to emergency relief funding last year.
The society missed out on Department of Social Services (DSS) funding for the first time in 20 years, losing $70,000 – 70 per cent of its annual budget.
President Joe Rechichi accepted two cheques for $5000 from Club Noble and the Dingley Village Community Bank branch of Bendigo Bank.
“Imagine having to make a decision whether to buy food for the family or put the heater on these days?” he said.
“Sadly, a growing number of families and single people face this decision every day in winter.
“These wonderful donations will be invaluable and will go towards direct aid to people in extreme poverty and socially isolated.”
The group has been providing food vouchers, blankets and other assistance to the community for 53 years.
Dingley Village Community Bank chairman David Starvaggi and Club Noble president Barry Bradshaw said they were proud to partner to help the society support the community’s most needy.
Call Springvale Benevolent Society on 9546 5558 to assist.
