By Parker McKenzie
The Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service has received a huge donation of over 1000 cans of food from Belgrave South Baptist Church, helping feed hundreds of disadvantaged people.
DRERS Manager Tania Bevan said rip-top canned food suits people who don’t have access to facilities to cook because of homelessness.
“We aim to assist people who are disadvantaged self-reliant, even if this usually means they stop seeing us, while we focus on the next group struggling with severe setbacks.” she said.
The not-for-profit community care organisation based in Belgrave gives disadvantaged community members access to food, payment of prescription medication, clothing, bill assistance, advocacy and counselling.
Belgrave South Baptist Church Pastor Julian Holdsworth said the church has previously given a similar donation in June 2021.
“We just want to help the people who may be doing it tough in the Hills and DRERS are the professionals in that field.” he said.
Ms Bevins said she believes the amount of people seeking help through services like DRERS is rising because of the cost of living.
“We can always use some help. We welcome all inquiries and we can’t operate without the support,” she said.
“Sleeping bags rated for cold weather are always needed and something we need more of.”
The charity was founded in 1998 and offers food, clothing and financial assistance to those in need.
The Dandenong Ranges Relief Service is located at the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub, where people can drop in for social interaction.
DRERS can be called between 9am and 12.30pm from Monday to Friday on 9754 7777.
