By Tyler Wright
The Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service Inc. has received $500 from Commonwealth Bank Belgrave branch employees as part of a nationwide community donation program.
The Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service Inc. is a non-profit organisation which provides food, clothing and financial assistance to those who are disadvantaged or experiencing homelessness.
This could be due to factors including illness, unemployment or domestic violence.
Alongside a food and supplies pantry, DRERS also has a drop-in centre for those seeking social interaction, offers public showers and operates an op shop.
DRERS CEO Tania Bevan said the $500 donation is very generous and will go towards the service’s general emergency relief program.
Community donations are also welcome.
“Long life milk is always very good. two minute noodles, tuna, rice and pasta,” Ms Bevan said.
“Sweet and savory biscuits are always good, and things like muesli bars for school lunches.”
Each Commonwealth Bank branch and customer-facing team has been allocated $500 to donate to causes important to their local community, with the Belgrave branch team chose for the funds to be allocated DRERS.
“After another challenging start to the year for many communities, this is one small way we can get behind local organisations who continue to do good work within our community,” the Commonwealth Bank Belgrave branch manager said.
“We are pleased to support the Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief [Service Inc] in particular, supporting the local community with assistance with not only food, but also purchase of medication, temporary accommodation amongst many more, therefore monetary donations help the community quite a bit so it’s great to be able to support them in this great work,” the branch manager said.
Ms Bevan said those who wish to donate can drop off donations at the service’s hub in Belgrave, as well as donate cash and card in person or through the DRERS website.
For more information and to donate, visit https://www.drers.org.au/
The Dandenong Ranges Relief Service Inc. is located on the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub, 1616 – 1624 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave 3160.
