Communities in Far North Queensland have had a devastating start to the holiday season, with a catastrophic rain event drenching the region in the wake of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
Entire towns have been evacuated, with authorities confirming that this is a record-breaking natural disaster.
As the full impact of the disaster continues to be assessed, Hand Heart Pocket has been working closely with our disaster-relief partner GIVIT, to understand the level of need and how we can best respond.
Our donation on behalf of the Freemasons of Queensland
Hand Heart Pocket is today announcing a $100,000 donation to GIVIT, on behalf of the Freemasons of Queensland, to support disaster relief efforts across the Far North.
100% of this donation will go to directly helping affected residents.
The donation will support residents with their immediate needs during the emergency response period (such as vouchers for food, clothing, essential supplies and medication) as well as their longer terms needs during the recovery period (such as replacing essential households goods once people are able to safely return home).
Our partnership with GIVIT means we can respond quickly on behalf of our Members, no matter when or where disasters occur across Queensland.
We also have funds put aside for any further disaster relief efforts that may be required during the summer, so we are well-positioned to be able to give quickly should disaster strike again.
How you can help
1) Donate to the Hand Heart Pocket Disaster Relief Appeal
If you would like to join the efforts to help people affected by these floods, you can also donate funds directly to GIVIT, through the Hand Heart Pocket Disaster Relief Appeal. 100% of your donation will go directly to people affected by this disaster.
Three ways you can donate
Donate via credit card
To donate via Credit Card or PayPal, go to the Hand Heart Pocket Disaster Relief Appeal page on the GIVIT website and enter your details. Remember to include the reference HHP FNQ in the comment box.
Donate via cheque
Cheques can be made out to: GIVIT Listed Ltd
Please include the reference HHP FNQ on the back of the cheque.
Then post the cheque to:
GIVIT Listed Ltd
PO Box 1080
Milton QLD 4064
Donate via direct deposit
Please email GIVIT on info@givit.org.au who will provide their account details. Please include the reference HHP FNQ.
A tax receipt will be auto-generated for all online donations. However, for direct deposit donations and cheques, please send GIVIT an email at info@givit.org.au to request a tax receipt.
2) Refer affected community members to their local community organisations for assistance
Members who are aware of affected residents in the region are encouraged to refer people to their local community organisations to access assistance in the days and weeks ahead.
Most community organisations in the region who will be providing assistance in the aftermath of the disaster will already be registered with GIVIT, and will be well-placed to help Members and communities access what they need.
About GIVIT
GIVIT is a non-profit organisation that connects generous donors with local community organisations to make sure people and communities get exactly what they need, when they need it – whether they need immediate relief or longer-term recovery from natural disasters or other events causing hardship. As the Queensland Government’s disaster relief co-ordinator, GIVIT has relationships with Councils, local community organisations and other charities, meaning they can respond quickly.
Photo: Hand Heart Pocket is today announcing a $100,000 donation to GIVIT, on behalf of the Freemasons of Queensland, to support disaster relief efforts across the Far North.
