Without a doubt, recent times have been tough on Australians as residents and first responders battle against raging fires to save lives, homes and livelihoods.
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Doctors and paramedics on the ground have treated more than 100 people hurt during devastating bushfires in NSW, including 20 firefighters.
Three people have died, and more than 150 homes have been lost as parts of NSW continue to burn.
It can be hard to watch, particularly when it feels like there is nothing one can do to help. So, here is a handy list of where you can donate to support the efforts of those tackling the raging blazes across the state.
1. The Rural Fire Service
Help the men and women on the front line by donating directly to the organisation that steps up to the plate.
There are three ways you can donate:
- Donate by credit card at Secure online donations.
- Deposit funds directly. Account Name: NSW Rural Fire Service. Bank: Westpac BSB: 032-001 Account No: 171051. (To request a receipt please email your name, date of deposit, amount and address to dgr@rfs.nsw.gov.au).
- Post a cheque or money order to NSW Rural Fire Service, Locked Bag 17, Granville NSW 2142.
2. The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army launched The Bushfire Disaster Appeal to allow Australians to support the communities affected.
Major Topher Holland, general manager of strategic emergency and disaster management, said teams have been activated at multiple locations, with some on standby ready to activate should they be required at other evacuation centres.
"Our teams are providing meals to evacuees and frontline responders, and will continue to provide whatever support is needed as the situation develops," he said.
"For our Salvo Emergency Services to be active at this many locations at one time in one region is unprecedented."
Here is how donations could help:
- $80 - can help to provide household essentials during an emergency.
- $125 - can help reach isolated families in an emergency.
- $250 - can help provide urgent immediate assistance, like food and shelter.
- $1000 - can go towards ongoing care and support in the aftermath of the emergency
3. Australian Red Cross
The Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery accepts donations, and you can call them on 1800 811 700 or making a donation online.
Red Cross will use the donations to help affected communities by providing aid and maintaining stocks of critical disaster response equipment including water filtration, shelter, hygiene and cooking kits for use in emergencies.
4. St Vincent de Paul
Clare Van Doorn, the acting regional director of St Vincent de Paul in the north-east region of NSW, told The Newcastle Herald its conference members are present at evacuation centres providing clothing, food vouchers and gift cards to meet the needs of those impacted by fires.
Funds can also be donated to the appeal by calling 13 18 12.
Ms Van Doorn said that at this stage money was preferable.
"It enables us to make sure we can support people with the types of items they require as well as ongoing support they will need to rebuild," she said
Annie Lewis
Have a tip? Email me at a.lewis@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Have a tip? Email me at a.lewis@austcommunitymedia.com.au
