From the pandemic to extreme weather events, the Greater Shepparton area has proven on many occasions that it cares deeply, according to State Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe.
“I will never forget how our community came together during COVID and also during the 2022 floods,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“The saying ‘it takes a village’ rings true when it comes to supporting our community.
“We are that village, and we care deeply for each other.”
Ms O’Keeffe said she is often contacted by members of the community in times of need and that “requests can vary greatly.”
“I had a family of five whose fridge died and they were not in a position to replace it,” she said.
“I put the call out through social media and a really good fridge was donated, in fact we had three offered.”
According to Ms O’Keefe, the demand for assistance continues to grow, as does the willingness of the community to help.
In one recent example, Ms O’Keeffe mentioned a family from Wunghnu losing all their possessions in a fire on Christmas Eve, and how locals rallied to donate furniture, household items, and funds through a GoFundMe campaign.
Ms O’Keefe worked alongside volunteer Darryl Remnant to organise donations and deliveries for the family.
According to Ms O’Keeffe, there have also been many instances where locals have reached out to her to donate quality household items, but a lack of storage space has made it difficult to accept them.
“For some time, I have been thinking about how we can be more prepared when a need arises,” she said.
“What we really need is a permanent storage space so that we have items on hand when we need it.
“We are putting the call out to see if anyone has a small warehouse or some space that might be suitable for us to store furniture and household items.
“We are also in the initial stages of setting up a not-for-profit organisation, so we have a strong and secure presence in the community.
“It is early stages, but we both want to see this happen and are looking at our options.
“A donated space would be ideal, and we know that is a big ask, but you never know what’s out there or who is willing to jump on board unless you ask.
Anyone who may be able to assist with suitable storage space is encouraged to contact Ms O’Keeffe or Mr Remnant at the numbers provided.
Kim – 5831 6944
Darryl – 0490 365 608
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