GIPPSLAND Emergency Relief Fund has launched an appeal for financial donations to provide flood-affected residents with immediate support.
GERF spokesperson Barry Whitehead announced the new appeal following confirmed reports of multiple property evacuations and damage in the Latrobe and Wellington shires.
While the full extent of the damage is not yet known, councils have activated emergency relief plans and already know of people needing immediate help.
“It is likely that many Gippsland residents will be affected by flood waters,” Mr Whitehead said.
Money raised by GERF is distributed quickly to affected Gippslanders for discretionary use while insurance and government claims are being processed, helping give access to emergency resources like food and temporary accommodation.
Mr Whitehead has said Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund had always received strong support from the community and businesses, both from within the region and further afield.
“Unfortunately, Gippslanders are all too familiar with the devastating impacts fire, flood and other natural disasters can have on our region,” he said.
“That said, we’ve always been able to rely on the goodwill of locals and friends from other communities to dig deep and give what they can during these trying times.
“So we’re asking local community members and corporate citizens, neighbours and friends from other communities to think about the plight of flood-affected Gippsland communities and give whatever they can.”
Donations can be made via direct bank transfer (BSB: 083 932, account number: 740196862), Paypal via www.gerf.org.au, or at any at any branch of the NAB across Australia.
Donations more than $2 are tax deductible.
Residents affected by flooding should phone their local council municipal recovery manager, who will assess the applicant’s situation and make a referral to GERF where applicable.
Mr Whitehead said Gippslanders whose principal place of residence was affected by floodwater, along with farmers experiencing loss of fences, fodder or livestock, may be eligible for payment.
The Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund was established in 1978, and is operated by local volunteers for Gippsland communities affected by natural disaster events.
For information visit www.gerf.org.au, or phone Mr Whitehead on 0418 594 175.
