NSW Bushfires - how you can help

Residents have contacted Council asking how the North Sydney community, can help communities affected by the bush fires. Here are some options to consider.

Make a donation Fire affected communities have asked that people donate money rather than goods as they have limited storage space and inadequate resources to distribute items or dispose of items that are not required. There are numerous organisations to which you can donate. The Australian Government has compiled a list of registered charities with bushfire relief and recovery activities that are tax deductible:               https://www.pmc.gov.au/registered-bushfire-charities  Offer accommodation If you can provide accommodation for individuals or families in need while their homes are being rebuilt you can list your property with one of the following sites. AirBnB: https://www.airbnb.com.au/openhomes/disaster-relief/bushfire-new-south-wales-2020-01 Flatmates: https://flatmates.com.au/rooms/disaster-relief Find a Bed: https://www.findabed.info/ Volunteer opportunities There is a need for additional skills to assist with the recovery in fire-affected areas. If you have the time and skills to volunteer, you can register with the following sites. Tradies for Fire Affected Communities: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2524572697856866/ Volunteer opportunities: https://blazeaid.com.au/current-camps/ Provide furniture or other goods While North Sydney Council is unable to accept donations, there are sites available where you can post the items you have to give away. These will allow people in need to find furniture or other items that meet their specific needs.http://www.givit.org.au/items-needed https://www.emergency.nsw.gov.au/Pages/for-the-community/volunteering.aspx

What Council is doing

Council has released staff to volunteer with both the fire fighting and disaster recovery work in affected communities. One staff member was released from November to January to fight fires in multiple locations across the State.

Another is a member of the Defence Reservists and has been deployed for recovery work. Council is currently seeking expressions of interest from staff who could assist in affected council areas.

The North Sydney Community Centre is holding a workshop [sold out] to make pouches for animals injured or orphaned by the fire. Visit www.northsydneycentre.com.au for details of other workshop dates.

Where to go for help?

Major disasters can have a huge impact on the wellbeing of individuals and communities. This may be immediate or have an impact days, weeks or months after the initial crisis has passed. If you have been affected by the fires (or drought) or know others who are, you can find support at one of the following agencies.

              Lifeline

              Beyond Blue    

If you have been directly affected by the bushfires or know someone who has been, you can find information on financial support and other assistance on the page below:

https://www.emergency.nsw.gov.au/Pages/for-the-community/disaster-assistance/financial-support.aspx

Follow the RFS website for up-to-date information on fires and warnings: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fires-near-me

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