Helping those who need it most

Jess Harding and Elly Hanlon from Hanlon Industries with Give Where You Live's Kristi Clapinski. (Supplied)

Geelong’s biggest local charity fundraiser is about to kick off for another year.

Community foundation Give Where You Live’s Give Geelong Appeal begins today, running for a week until Friday, March 21.

The Give Geelong Appeal raises funds to support the foundation’s mission of helping those experiencing homelessness, families struggling to buy groceries and people facing long-term unemployment.

Give Where You Live Foundation chief executive Zac Lewis said together the people of Geelong could make a difference to those who need it most in our community.

“As the cost of living continues to rise, we’re seeing that the need in our community is also increasing,” Mr Lewis said.

“The foundation’s latest Food For Thought research report showed that 90 per cent of Geelong food relief agencies had experienced service demand growth. Additionally, national data shows that residents in our region experienced significantly higher levels of food insecurity compared to the Victorian average.

“Supporting the Give Geelong Appeal will support the foundation’s work to create a fairer community for those that need it most here in Geelong.”

Local businesses Auswide Plumbing & Civil and Hanlon Industries are getting behind the Give Geelong Appeal as matching giving partners, partnering to double donations of up to $15,000.

The appeal starts today with Footy Gear Friday, with the Give Geelong Breakfast on next Friday, March 21 at the GMHBA Stadium’s President’s Room.

“Your donation to the Give Geelong Appeal will have a local impact,” Mr Lewis said.

“It will support people in our community facing long-term unemployment, help people facing homelessness and support families struggling to put food on the table.”

Visit givewhereyoulive.com.au to make a donation or be a part of appeal activities.