By BRIDGET COOK
COMMUNITY members have shown how much they care for Casey’s underprivileged and homeless people by donating thousands of items and services to lend a helping hand to those in need.
This year Berwick couple Malcolm and Jenny Wells established a not-for-profit organisation called Who Cares? We Do.
Their first initiative through the organisation is taking place next Sunday, 22 June, at the Cranbourne Public Hall where those less fortunate can come in and get free clothes, toys, a haircut, medical check, a simple meal, show bag with personal and dental hygiene products and connect with advice and support services in the area.
Mr Wells said since prompting the day, including in the News in April, they have been inundated with donations for the event.
“It’s pretty incredible and we have been overwhelmed with responses from people wanting to help,” he said.
“We’ve had clothes come from across Casey and as far as Bendigo and Sale.
“We will have at least 3000 items of clothing to give away on the day.
“The Rotary Club of Cranbourne has jumped on board and are doing all the cooking on the day.
“We have five hairdressers donating their time to give haircuts and a nurse doing basic health checks.
“The Cranbourne RSL Women’s Auxiliary went into Aldi and purchased all the shampoo, conditioner and toothpaste and other items which will be given away in show bags.
“Now we just have to hope we have plenty of people show up and get some support.
“It’s becoming quite big and we are really proud of that.”
Mr Wells said he was amazed at how many people were willing to help those doing it tough.
“Collectively, this is a way everyone can make a difference on a big scale,” he said.
“The support has been incredible.”
Mr Wells said they started the organisation as a way of giving back to their community.
“Jenny and I were looking for a long time for something we could do for our local community and this type of day ticked all the boxes in terms of directly helping those in the community that need it most,” he said.
“Dare I say it, but at some stage in the next five to 10 years, I want to retire from my business and I wanted something of a charitable nature that could take over the time and effort my business now occupies.
“For us, it’s all about giving back and doing what we can for those in need.”
The first event will take place next Sunday from 12.30 to 3pm.
Anyone wishing to volunteer on the day or to donate items can follow Who Cares? We Do on Facebook or call Mr Wells on 0412 998 964.
