Michaela Meade
Big Group Hug in Bundoora is making a call-out for donations after the COVID-19 pandemic left many families in need.
Big Group Hug is a charity founded in the northern suburbs in 2014 that distributes donations of new and pre-loved baby goods, books, toys and nursery equipment to families in need.
Founder Angela Wood said the COVID-19 pandemic has put more people in need than before.
“People are reaching out for help for the first time, almost in shock that they are having to ask,” Ms Wood said.
“The need to ask for help has risen and the risk of those on the margins falling further behind is real and being witnessed on a daily, hourly basis.”
Spokesperson Kate Hawthorne said that both physical items and monetary donations are important considering demand.
“There has been a baby boom during COVID-19 times, and we have more families in need than before,” Ms Hawthorne said.
“We’d love to be able to assist as many families as we can but without either physical items or monetary donations, we are limited.”
The organisation is currently seeking donations of baby baths, sterilisers (microwave and electric), vaporisers, baby monitors, porta cots, bottle warmers, prams, car seats, bouncers, bassinets, play mats, high chairs and children’s clothing.
Details: biggrouphug.org/donate-new-or-pre-loved-items
