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Shedding light on Australia’s housing crisis and Givit’s impact on families in need
As the holidays approach, many people are looking forward to spending time with loved ones, sharing good food and creating precious memories. However, for countless families across Australia, the housing crisis has cast a shadow over these celebrations.
Instead of decorating the halls of their homes, many single mothers and their children are dealing with the challenges of shelter and transitional housing, where soaring housing prices leave them with nowhere to go.
The Beanstalk Mums podcast recently discussed this issue in a heartfelt episode, featuring Danielle Draper, Domestic Violence Program Manager at Givit. Together they discuss the challenges these families face and the incredible impact Givit is having in providing essential support.
Giving: Bridge of Hope
For those unfamiliar, Givit is a non-profit organization that provides essential items to those in need with a clear focus on dignity and respect. It works with more than 4,700 organizations across Australia, including councils, charities and community groups, to ensure donations are targeted to meet specific needs.
Danielle shared a story of resilience, including a mom transitioning out of a shelter who received vouchers for a bed and a refrigerator to help her build a new home. These seemingly simple items are changing the lives of families trying to rebuild their lives.
But Givit’s impact was even more profound. The organization’s Domestic Violence Appeal has provided more than 33,000 donations worth $500,000 to people fleeing domestic violence. This includes nearly 1 million items and services delivered over the past four years.
Housing crisis: From temporary to permanent
The conversation highlighted a troubling trend. Housing designed for short-term use is now seen as a long-term solution. Many single mothers and their children spend years in transitional accommodation, which often isolates them from support networks and makes it more difficult to provide education and wellbeing for their children.
Danielle explains how Givit addresses these challenges by connecting donors directly with families in need. Whether it’s grocery coupons, clothing or larger items like a washing machine, Givit’s approach ensures families have what they need, when they need it.
Christmas Needs: A Time for Giving
The holidays increase the needs of families struggling to make ends meet. There is a surge in demand for grocery vouchers and Christmas gifts, especially for teenagers who are often overlooked.
Danielle explained that while Givit doesn’t actually store donations, it acts as a bridge between donors and organizations. This allows flexibility in how people donate – whether by mailing items, dropping off locally or making a donation.
She also shared the touching story of a family who received a bicycle through Givit. The gift not only brought joy, it also helped the child and his stepfather bond, showing how thoughtful giving can foster healing and connection.
How to help people in housing crisis
If you’re inspired, you can support Givit in a variety of ways:
- Donate funds or in kind through their platforms.
- Volunteer your time or skills assist in their actions.
- spread the word Raise awareness of its mission.
One of the most important advantages of Givit is its transparency. Donors can see exactly where their donations are going, inspiring continued generosity and building trust.
common mission
This episode of the Beanstalk Mom Podcast is a profound reminder of the power of community. It highlights the resilience of single mothers and the importance of organizations like Givit in helping families move forward.
As many of us count our blessings, let us not forget those who need our help. By supporting organizations like Givit, we can bring hope to families facing unimaginable challenges.
For more information or to get involved, visit Givit’s website. Together we can make a real difference this Christmas and beyond.
Link to this episode:
🌟 https://1800respect.org.au — 1800RESPECT is free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing support to people affected by domestic or sexual violence.
✨ https://www.givit.org.au — That’s how you donate wisely! Donations make a real and positive impact on the lives of Australians in need. Learn how a single donation made wisely can change a person’s life forever.
👯♀️ https://www.facebook.com/groups/SingleMumVine — Don’t forget to join Single Mum Vine on Facebook! This is the perfect place to connect with other single moms for support and advice.
🎙️ https://beanstalkmums.com.au/podcast — Our brand new widget is now live on the Beanstalk Mums website! Please leave us a voice message with your thoughts or questions; you may hear them in future episodes.
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