By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Springvale Benevolent Society is locked a battle to meet requests to help homeless and battling families.
At its annual general meeting, it reported a 15 per cent rise in clients such as family violence victims and asylum seekers needing help.
Its donations, though a generous $50,000, had dropped by 19 per cent. Its soaring expenses outstripped income by more than $20,000.
The society receives no State or Federal funding.
President Joe Rechichi said despite the loss, the society was determined to help people in need.
In the past 12 months, the society made more than 1000 home visits. It distributed blankets, food parcels, food vouchers and clothing to about 430 families, including 350 children.
“The Society (ensures) that people in need have food on the table, blankets to keep them warm, beds to sleep in and even more importantly someone to be there to listen to their problems and help them where possible as they find it hard to make ends meet,” president Joe Rechichi said.
The Society got a welcome boost ahead of its Christmas drive, with a $5000 donation from the Spring Vale Lodge and the Freemasons Foundation.
Mr Rechichi said the donation would cover nearly half of the food vouchers and Christmas groceries needed for 200 needy families.
The lodge’s Worshipful Master Giorgio Migliaccio said the Freemasons wanted to help a local charity helping others during what can be a tough festive season for many.
“We’re always looking for good local projects to support.”
To donate money or food to the Springvale Benevolent Society, call Mr Rechichi on 0409 249 881.
