8 June, 2022
VACCA is proud to launch their Crisis Appeal, raising critical funds for regional and metro emergency relief programs which provide essential food, warm clothing, toiletries and furniture for Aboriginal families and children in crisis.
The Emergency Relief programs VACCA run in regional Victoria receive no government funding and the metro programs are severely underfunded.
VACCA is calling on individuals, businesses and sector partners to help raise $75,000 before June 30 to fund these critical programs for another year.
Last year, VACCA supported over 4500 families and children through Emergency Relief programs, providing immediate supports such as help with bills, school supplies, and food hampers.
“The cost of living is increasing and everyone's feeling the pain. It's not uncommon for parents to say they've had to choose between using the heater or feeding their children,” - Ben O’Dwyer (Wiradjuri & Kalkadoon), Emergency Relief Project Officer at Ovens-Murray, Wangaratta.
Through these programs, VACCA is able to connect Aboriginal families in need with other essential services, to prevent further crisis and promote long-term resilience.
As an Aboriginal organisation, VACCA provides a culturally safe place for Aboriginal families to seek help. VACCA’s CEO Muriel Bamblett speaks of the trust developed with the community:
“We never lose sight of the mums and dads in our community that that need our support at critical times. They have a connection with us, and we ensure through our services, that they have access to the right supports, when they need. If they get into trouble, they know they can ring us.”
VACCA would like to acknowledge community, sector partners and organisations that support the Emergency Relief programs. VACCA’s essential work would not be possible without this generosity.
Support VACCA’s Crisis Appeal, please get in contact with us at SupportUs@VACCA.org or visit https://www.vacca.org/page/get-involved/crisis-appeal