New partnership launched to support community's most vulnerable

27th October 2020

A new partnership will make it easy to support some of the most vulnerable people in our community, while doing your banking.

Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre and Bendigo Bank have teamed up to gather much-needed food and essential items for people experiencing homelessness in our community.

In the lead-up to Christmas, Bendigo’s Hervey Bay branch will serve as a collection point for personal hygiene products and non-perishable food items.

Items donated will go towards HBNC’s hot shower program and Bless Box.

HBNC operations manager, Christian Berechree said the partnership with Bendigo would help make these vital services available for those who need them most.

“We are always looking for meaningful and practical ways to help the most vulnerable in our community but we can’t do it on our own,” Christian said.

“Partnering with Bendigo means we have another space and more boots on the ground to make sure people experiencing homelessness in our community get the support they need.

“This is another way we can work towards our goal of zero homelessness in our community – one of our key focus areas under our 2020-2023 strategic plan.”

Kylie Hammond, Customer Relationship Manager at Bendigo Bank, said partnering with HBNC was a way of giving back to the community – something which had been more challenging to do under COVID-19 restrictions.

“We think people forget it doesn’t take a big donation to help someone, a small donation can be life changing to someone’s life, especially at Christmas time,” Kylie said.

Donations can be dropped off at the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank branch, 7/55 Main St, Pialba.

The following items will be welcomed:

  • Non-perishable food, such as canned goods
  • Toothbrushes and toothpaste
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Deodorant
  • Combs or brushes
  • Soap
  • Tissues
  • Face washers
  • Body lotion or moisturiser

Financial donations will also be accepted in branch. Speak to bank staff for details.

Phone Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre on 4194 3000 for more information about what can be donated.

PHOTO CAPTION: Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre Operations Manager Christian Berechree and Office Coordinator Helen Davenport with Danni Krohn and Alex Kruger from Bendigo and Adelaide Bank.