With everything that's going on in the world in this first week of the new year, we're feeling like we can't just move forward with business as usual. It's been a struggle to not let the fear and anguish render us helpless and make us feel as if no tiny, individual contribution can possibly make any difference thrown into this monumental chasm of disorder. But ringing our hands does no one any good and optimists at heart, we know that by bringing our resources together we can effect meaningful change in any situation. Drawing on advice we were given long ago to take a deep breath and make a list, we've laid out a few of the ways that we've been told individuals can help the tragic and terrifying situation in Australia. In this case, it seems cash is king and we're personally and as a company donating and encouraging our audience to help if they can. We’ve put together a simple list of the organizations that we're giving to, as well as some others doing important work in the affected region.
THE AUSTRALIAN RED CROSS
According to The New York Times "The Australian Red Cross is accepting donations to its Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund, which has helped to send 1,285 staff members and volunteers to communities affected by the fires and to provide support to displaced people sheltering in more than 69 evacuation and recovery centers. The Red Cross also provides emergency grants to help people cover their immediate needs.” Donate here.
NSW Rural Fire Service
The New South Wales Rural Fire Service is a volunteer-based firefighting agency and the world's largest volunteer fire service. Donate here.
WIRES
WIRES (New South Wales Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service Inc.) is Australia's largest wildlife rescue organization and is helping to rescue and care for the innocent animal victims of the fires and drought. Donate here.
WILDLIFE VICTORIA
Wildlife Victoria is taking donations to their Victorian bushfire appeal. Funds will be distributed to wildlife shelters and carers to help rebuild enclosures and equipment that they have lost in the fires so that they can continue their lifesaving work, and support those that are struggling to cope with the enormous number of animals that will need care in the coming weeks and months. Donate here.
First Relief Fund for First Nations Communities
A GoFundMe page initiated by Neil Morris, a Yorta Yorta First Nations member, this Fundraiser benefits First Nations Communities across Eastern parts of Australia and the South Coast of New South Wales. Morris is working closely with communities in fire-affected areas to determine the most culturally appropriate, streamlined, and useful allocation of funding that will include clothing, medical equipment, and other personal items, temporary housing, repair of damaged property where applicable, and ongoing rental support. Donate here.
Or you can visit Community Enterprise Foundation to donate to the Bushfire Disaster Appeal, both on a national and state level, raising funds to support communities affected by the devastating fires across Australia. Donate here.