Connected Libraries (CL) ‘Deliver Joy’ Campaign received more than $5000 worth of gifts and non-perishable food items from community members in the lead-up to Christmas in 2024.
The campaign offered library members a way to pay it forward and help people doing it tough over Christmas.
The library also encouraged members to donate to the campaign instead of paying for existing charges on their library cards.
The local library does not charge overdue fines, but costs are recouped if a borrowed item is lost or damaged. If members donate to the campaign, the library will then waive those fees.
More than $3,000 in charges were waived as part of the campaign.
The library partnered with six local charities, including The Andrews Centre, Cranbourne Information and Support Service (CISS), Cranbourne Food Truck, Transit Outreach Service, St Vincent De Paul Society – Berwick Soup Van and Manna4Life to ensure the donations were distributed to those who needed them most.
Judy, a volunteer at the Andrews Centre, said: “It has been a year like no other for people struggling to just put food on the table… your support, as we try to provide for the most disadvantaged, is greatly appreciated.”
Rebecca Ruffin, Soup Van coordinator at St Vincent De Paul Society, said: “Last month alone, our Berwick Soup Van provided over 2500 meals to people experiencing poverty and food insecurity in Casey… Your support truly makes a difference”.
CL chief executive officer Beth Luppino said Deliver Joy had been running for many years and every year they were overwhelmed by the generosity of the Casey community, especially given the current economic climate.
“Thanks to all our wonderful members who participated, we are grateful.”
