Non-profit organisation GIVIT has commenced its First Nations Appeal to tackle the disproportionate impact of hardship on First Nations communities across the country.
The charity's figures revealed that First Nations Australians make up a quarter of those receiving help through GIVIT, despite being only making up 3 per cent of Australia's population.
Among the 600 First Nations charities and support organisations across Victoria receiving help through GIVIT, a dozen requests have come from Echuca due to the ongoing effects of the 2022 floods.
These include requests for a range of items including to furbish their new homes to Lego for children who are still dealing with trauma after the floods severely impacted their family.
Christina Spehr, GIVIT's national manager, called on everyday Australians to support the First Nations communities through the appeal.
“We’re calling on everyday Australians to show up and donate to our First Nations Appeal to empower First Nations futures,” she said.
“First Nations support organisations are often stretched in terms of resources and can struggle to source essential items ... GIVIT can provide donations to help meet this demand to ensure people get exactly what they need, when they need it.”
Through GIVIT, those in need can directly request items ranging from food vouchers to helping pay for health assessments.
Those making contributions online can choose the causes they donate to or a specific location so they can help those within their local area.
Kylie Skew, from GIVIT charity partner Killara Foundation in Victoria, said the rising cost of living has amplified challenges for First Nations Peoples.
“If we can provide a fuel or food voucher then our clients have got that little bit of money spare to put towards something else,” she said.
“Helping out with the small things can really take the pressure off.”
To lend a hand to First Nations Peoples in your local area, head to https://www.givit.org.au/first-nations-support.
If you have an item to donate that is not listed, please register the item on www.givit.org.au/donate-items
If you are a local charity or frontline service in need of donated goods and services, please register at givit.org.au/charity-registration