Give the gift of food

Generous food donations will bring joy to those in need in Springvale and surrounds this Christmas.
The Springvale Benevolent Society is urging the community to dig deep ahead of the festive season.
Chairman Joe Rechichi said the charity needed groceries for food parcels.
“We forget what is outside our front door,” he said.
“We don’t take into consideration the families that do not have the luxury of having a decent meal at Christmas time, and they live day-to-day with little food to share.
“The Springvale Benevolent Society is asking for donations of non-perishable food to distribute before Christmas to make a few families happy.”
Mr Rechichi spoke to the Journal following a cheque presentation at Club Noble on Tuesday, 10 October. The community group donated $2500.
Mr Rechichi is entering his 15th year as chairman, following the society’s AGM in September.
“It’s got to be done and I’m prepared to do it,” he said.
“The community needs me.
“This is important to me and the society.”
He urged schools to get involved with a food drive.
“We don’t want people missing out,” he said.
The group services more than 700 families, most from Noble Park and Springvale.
It’s relying on donations more than ever following Federal Government cuts to emergency relief funding in 2015.
“Our group is getting smaller, demand is getting higher,” Mr Rechichi said.
The group has been providing food vouchers, blankets and other assistance to the community for more than 50 years.
Call Springvale Benevolent Society on 9546 5558 to assist.