Canberra relief charity HelpingACT has launched its annual November Is Giving Month fundraising drive, urging the community to donate money, toys and long-life food to help locals facing hardship.
Running until 30 November, the campaign aims to fill 250 hampers for families in need — particularly children under 10.
In early December, a team of volunteers will pack the hampers at The Link, Ginninderry’s community and information centre — a tradition now in its seventh year.
“Those who receive our hampers will be able to breathe a little easier when it comes to celebrating during the festive season,” Mohammed Ali, the charity’s founder and chair, and former Canberra Citizen of the Year, said.
Mr Ali recently told Canberra Daily that the charity is struggling to meet the growing demand for help as food insecurity intensifies in the capital.
One in seven Canberrans now struggle to afford enough to eat. Each week, at least one new family seeks food assistance from HelpingACT, often due to unemployment, illness, domestic violence, or rising living costs. Even full-time workers are being forced to choose between food, housing, power, and medicine as prices climb by up to 30 per cent.
Since 2020, HelpingACT has more than doubled its food relief — from $750 to $1,800 worth of groceries distributed weekly — and now supports up to 20 families at a time. It has expanded its community meals program from monthly to weekly barbecues; supplies food to organisations such as Companion House, Havelock House, and Woden Community Services; and runs meals programs in schools.
“This month is all about giving back,” Mr Ali said. “As the season of gratitude begins, we’re asking our community to stand with us in making a difference. Every donation — big or small — helps us provide hope and practical help to those who need it most. Your generosity will greatly assist those struggling to provide during the festive season.”
To support November Giving Month, visit https://www.helpingact.org and click on the Giving Tree to see how you can help.
“Every act of kindness counts,” Mr Ali said. “November is the perfect time to turn compassion into action.”
Follow HelpingACT on social media at @HelpingACT.
