"GIVIT up' for domestic and family violence survivors this Mother's Day

Published Friday, 06 May, 2022 at 11:37 AM

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Minister for Women and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence
The Honourable Shannon Fentiman

Queenslanders can deliver the perfect gift to vulnerable people experiencing or escaping domestic and family violence by donating through GIVIT this Mother’s Day.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Women and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Shannon Fentiman said every donation to GIVIT – large or small – helped provide essential items and practical support to people in genuine need.

“If you are still looking for that perfect gift for your mum or loved one this Mother’s Day, a donation to GIVIT is a wonderful way you can show your appreciation,” Minister Fentiman said.

“GIVIT is a national, online not-for-profit organisation that connects generous donors of goods and financial support with local support organisations who then distribute the resources to people who need it most.

“When many domestic and family violence survivors escape, they leave in a hurry – often with just the clothes they are wearing or with children who’ve left toys and precious items behind.

“This lack of essential items and financial independence can be a barrier for many people looking to escape.

"Making sure women and families escaping violence have the support they need to rebuild their lives is invaluable.

“That’s why the Palaszczuk Government is proudly supporting GIVIT’s work with domestic and family violence charity and support organisations with $125,000 to fund a full-time engagement and support role over 12 months."

Minister Fentiman said GIVIT directs 100 per cent of donated funds to support domestic and family violence survivors to purchase what they need in an emergency and during recovery when it’s needed the most.

“This weekend, as we celebrate our mothers, grandmothers and the significant women in our lives, I encourage Queenslanders to remember the one-in-six women who have experienced physical or sexual violence from a current or previous partner and to give generously through GIVIT,” she said.

GIVIT is currently seeking donations or funding for more than 10,000 items for domestic and family violence survivors around the country, including more than 750 items for survivors in Queensland.

Items range from pharmacy and grocery vouchers, baby clothes, bed linen, mattresses and kitchen appliances.

Minister Fentiman said gifts and donations could be made with confidence they would reach people in genuine need.

“As the Palaszczuk Government’s official partner for managing donations during disasters, many people will be familiar with GIVIT’s track record helping vulnerable Queenslanders, including during the 2011 floods and the recent 2022 Queensland Flood Appeal,” she said.

“All donations through GIVIT are seen only by support organisations that been though a registration process and vetted by GIVIT as genuinely working with vulnerable people and communities.

“It’s safe, private and easy to use, and can be genuinely life-changing for people in need.”

Donors can visit www.givit.org.au to view a list of items needed by registered service providers or to list items to give away.

Funds can be donated at  https://www.givit.org.au/donate-funds.

ENDS

Media contact:       Inga Williams           0439 949 719