The Give Where You Live Foundation is calling on the community to support their 2025 Christmas Appeal and help create a place where everybody thrives through Christmas and beyond.
While plenty of us are celebrating, far too many in our community are struggling to put food on the table or find a safe place to call home, making it one of the most difficult times of the year.
Zac Lewis, CEO of the Give Where You Live Foundation said that with the cost of living making it hard for everyone, those most vulnerable in our community feel the impact.
“The rising cost of living is making it harder for many to afford even the basics. Families are skipping meals to pay rent. People are choosing between paying the bills and paying for essential medication and in Geelong, more people than ever are experiencing homelessness.”
The Foundation’s recently released Home Truths research report reveals the strain on Geelong’s service system and provides insights into how we can best support people facing homelessness in our community. Homelessness in our region is rising by 26%, far above the national and state averages.
One of the ways the Foundation is working to help the community thrive is through its own Community Choice voucher program. Community Choice provides access to basic necessities including food, material aid, and support for prescriptions to people experiencing crisis in our community.
“We believe everyone deserves a chance to thrive and experience a bright, joyful Christmas. That’s why we’re working to create a fairer Geelong community and why your support means more than ever. A donation to the Christmas Appeal will enable the Give Where You Live Foundation to continue supporting the community through initiatives including our Community Choice voucher program to assist those who may be experiencing homelessness,” Zac Lewis said.
Especially for families like Michael’s.
Michael, a single father of two found himself homeless after a series of setbacks. A workplace injury, mounting medical bills, and the rising cost of living left him without a home. For months, Michael and his children moved between emergency accommodation, friends’ couches, and their car, never knowing where they’d sleep next.
Then, thanks to the generosity of people like you, Michael’s story began to change.
Through support from the Give Where You Live Foundation and Uniting Vic, Michael accessed emergency accommodation, financial counselling, and Community Choice vouchers.
Finding permanent accommodation and with ongoing set up costs there was not much left for food or furniture. Michael was sleeping on the floor.
Through the support of material aid from the Give Where You Live Foundation’s Community Choice voucher program, Michael gained a full pantry and a bed to sleep in.
Today, he’s working part-time, his kids are thriving in school, and they’ll be spending Christmas in a safe, stable home.
“I’m smiling from ear to ear. I’m so grateful for the support and all the help we’ve been provided.”
The Give Where You Live Foundation is pleased to have the support of Community Care Chemist, appeal partner, helping to share the spirit of giving. Thanks to this partnership, all donations to the Christmas Appeal will be doubled from Giving Tuesday, 2 December (up to $7000).
For more information or to donate, visit givewhereyoulive.com.au.