Amid a cost-of-living crisis which has exacerbated homelessness, donations are among the many costs closely scrutinised by people lucky enough to have a roof over their heads.
This was the case for one generous Melbourne woman, Jennifer (not her real name), who decided several years ago after her husband died to support a smaller number of charities.
Believing administration and other costs of larger organisations were eating away at the funds given to them to help others, she focused her support on Avalon Center, whose headquarters is just around the corner from her home.
“I thought, this is really ridiculous. Why don't I just give my donation money to one place? And if I'm going to one place, where better than Avalon? I thought, well there isn't anyone better. Basically, that’s how it came about,” said Jennifer.
Avalon Centre President and Co-Ordinator Deborah Holmes breathed a sigh of relief at the news she would be receiving $15,000 from Jennifer because a couple of Avalon’s regular donors had dropped out right at the time the 38-year-old Melbourne charity could least afford.
“There’s so many people on the street,” Deborah said from the suburban home which serves not only as the Avalon headquarters but also a drop-in centre and safe space for so many people in need.
In fact, Avalon-donor Jennifer goes as far as to say it is “outrageous” that governments do not do more to support people without somewhere to sleep safely and comfortably.
“It's not a vote getter, and that's an issue, but it's very disappointing,” she said.
Run by volunteers and relying on donations and grants to fund its activities, Avalon is calling on those who can afford to give before the end of the financial year so it can continue to provide services like accommodation for homeless people, clothing, bedding and toiletries.
The charity, which promises to provide a ‘hand-up, not a hand-out’, is looking to buy its 16th property under the Avalon Homes for the Homeless initiative.
A former Afghan refugee last year moved into the 15th property with her baby, starting a new life in the two bedroom unit in Dandenong away from the physical and emotional violence she had endured and ending the worrisome instability of ‘couch surfing’ at the homes of friends.
“There are many other stories just like hers which makes it so important that we keep buying these properties, but we need assistance,” Deborah said.
“Please give because you have the satisfaction of not only helping vulnerable people but also get the financial benefit of a tax deduction.
“We help those who can’t help themselves and who are not being helped by other organisations, which may be because they live with mental illness and/or disabilities, are elderly or for myriad other reasons.”
A donation of $20,000 a year would enable Avalon Centre to service a loan used to buy a two bedroom unit under its ‘Avalon Homes for the Homeless’ initiative.
“Why not break this cost down by joining forces with other family members or friends?” Deborah said.
“For the cost of just two cups of coffee a day you and four other people can combine to help us purchase another property.
“If you can afford it, particularly at a time like this, you could change lives forever.
“Please help us to help others.”
To donate, go to: https://avaloncentre.org.au/ways-to-help/donate/
About us:
About the Avalon Centre
Opened in 1987, Avalon is a unique centre with a focus on meeting unmet needs. It is run entirely by volunteers and survives solely on donations and grants. Our aim is to help people who have slipped through the cracks, including the homeless, people with mental illness and/or disabilities, the elderly and anyone requiring support. For more information, click here.
Contact details:
Media Inquiries and more information:
Avalon Centre Co-Ordinator Deborah Holmes 0402 036 406 / [email protected]