As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving takes on new meaning for many in our community. For families struggling with financial pressures, Christmas can bring not only the hope of joy but also the stress of making ends meet.
This year, Brown Property Group is once again proud to support Community Information and Support Cranbourne (CISC) in their annual Christmas Drive, rallying behind this essential initiative to help those in need across the Casey South community!
About CISC and Their Impact
CISC is a dedicated, local, not-for-profit organization that plays a pivotal role in supporting the Casey South community with crucial services. From essential relief to empowering programs, CISC offers a range of assistance, including:
- Information, referrals, and negotiations
- Financial and personal counselling
- No Interest Loans Scheme (NILS)
- Emergency relief
The impact of CISC’s work over the past two years has been nothing short of remarkable. In this time, they’ve:
- Distributed $804,000 in food and petrol vouchers
- Provided 1,739 food parcels
- Delivered $74,847 in educational support for children from over 315 families
- Helped alleviate $394,550 in debt for struggling families
- Supported $24,450 in essential medication and $16,998 in short-term car registration
These efforts make a direct, positive impact on families, enabling them to access essentials, reduce stress, and feel supported during times of crisis.
Increasing Demand for Support
The need for CISC’s services has grown tremendously since the pandemic, with requests for assistance rising each year. Over the past few years, CISC has:
- Received over 81,303 requests for support and information
- Counselled 1,212 individuals, couples, families and children
- Assisted 358 clients facing complex financial and legal issues
The holiday season and rising cost-of-living pressures mean more families than ever will turn to CISC for help. Last year alone, thanks to community donations, CISC assisted over 253 families, and this year, with demand continuing to grow, they need your help to reach even more people.
How You Can Contribute
If you’d like to make a difference this holiday season, please consider donating to the CISC Christmas Drive. Suggested items include:
- Technology gifts: Headphones, speakers and small gadgets for all ages
- Sports and outdoor equipment: Great for families looking to keep active together
- Gift vouchers, toiletries, and non-perishable food: Versatile items that meet a wide range of needs
- Toys: A thoughtful way to bring joy to a child
Important Donation Guidelines
To ensure that all contributions meet quality standards and can be readily distributed to families, please keep these guidelines in mind:
Only New Items Accepted: Unfortunately, CISC is unable to accept any second-hand goods.
Non-Perishable Food Only: Long-life items that don’t require refrigeration and have easy-open packaging are ideal for distribution.
No teddy bears: Due to storage constraints, we kindly ask that teddy bears not be donated. Teddies can also become a health hazard if they are not stored in a safe and dry location.
By supporting the CISC Christmas Drive, you’re helping to make the holiday season a little brighter for those in need. Every item, large or small, counts toward making a difference and showing our community that they’re not alone.
Please Give Generously
Donations will be accepted directly at Community Information and Support Cranbourne until Monday 16th December:
156 Sladen St, Cranbourne VIC 3977
Open Monday – Friday
9:30am – 3:30pm
Alternatively, you can show your support by donating via the CISC website here.
We look forward to bringing a little Christmas cheer to those in need this holiday season
