Just because we don’t hear about it, that doesn’t mean the drought is over and farmers are still struggling to make ends meet. Many who have been on government-supported Farm Household Allowance Scheme for their allocated four years, could soon lose that as well.
The North Coast Drought Appeal, now in its 26th year, will once again be sending care packages to farming families doing it tough.
Organizer of the appeal Anne Thompson, says that last year the drought conditions were dire but now they are disastrous. ‘Many places are running out of water,’ says Anne who has been organising this appeal since 1994.
‘People are asked to donate non-perishable food items that are not past the use-by date or in rusty cans.
‘We only have to look in our own cupboards for grocery items we can do without.’
Items such as tea, coffee, sweet biscuits, crackers, fruit cakes, cereal, tinned fruit/vegetables/soup/tuna/salmon; jams, vegemite, peanut butter, honey, packet mixes, sauces, pasta, rice, long-life milk, as well as treats like dried fruit, nuts and lollies.
In the past Anne has said not to donate chocolate as it melts. ‘At this time of the year maybe it would be ok,’ she said. ‘Also needed are toiletries, sanitary and laundry products, as well as pet food.
‘We need to let our farmers know that they are not forgotten,’ says Anne. ‘Volunteers will be needed when packing commences at the Lismore Showground Pavilion from early August and everything needs to be in by September 26.
‘Please get together with friends, families, neighbours, clubs, schools, churches, and let us once again show our farmers that they are not forgotten and maybe lift their spirits for just a little while.
Cash donations can also be made to North Coast Drought Appeal, BSB- 728 – 728 A/C No22321288.
For more information phone Anne Thompson on 0412 910 523.
Items can be dropped at the following places:
Lismore Showground Pavilion – next to the Office
Lismore Library – Magellan St. Lismore,
Wallace’s – River St, Ballina
Curves – Ballina
Eric Box Mitsubishi – Casino
Clunes Auto Centre – Clunes
Century 21 Real Estate – Main St, Alstonville
Anglican Church Op-shop – Byron Bay
Bangalow CWA Gift Shop – Bangalow
Ray Towers Carpets – Mullumbimby
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