The Women’s Resource Centre in Bega has collected more blankets than ever before this winter thanks to unprecedented community involvement.
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The centre has been able to give away 29 blankets so far, with up to 30 more available for women struggling against the cold.
Relief coordinator Laura Wilcox said the blankets make a tremendous difference to the recipients.
“They’re just overwhelmed, they’re in tears because they’re so grateful,” she said.
“Some of these women tell me it’s the first time they’ve been warm all winter.”
Ms Wilcox said staying warm was a matter of survival at this time of year, especially for women who can’t afford to turn the heater on at home or who have to sleep in their cars.
The increase in blankets this year was sparked by a conversation with Horizon Credit Union Bega branch manager Stephen Holloway.
“He got in touch with us because he wanted to know how he could help the centre," Ms Wilcox said.
“We told him about our blanket drive, and he opened up his store as a blanket collection front and really got the word out for us.”
The Women’s Resource Centre has been distributing their surplus of blankets to those in need through Mission Australia, Family Support and Katungul Medical Centre.
But Ms Wilcox reinforced the point that the blankets were available for anyone through the centre.
“I can’t stress it enough, if you are struggling to keep warm, these blankets are here for you, free of charge,” she said.
“The problem is, the people who need the blankets most are the ones who can’t afford to buy them.”
The Women’s Resouce Centre will continue to collect and distribute blankets for the duration of winter. Donations can be made to the WRC in Peden St Bega and Horizon Credit Union.