Bendigo Bank launches Victorian Flood Appeal
Bendigo Bank has today launched a Victorian Flood Appeal to raise funds in support of those Victorian communities most affected by the recent devastating floods.
Funds raised by the new Appeal - conducted by Bendigo Bank’s charitable arm, Community Enterprise Foundation - will be directed to practically help those impacted and to aid their recovery over the immediate, medium, and long-term. The Bank is ready to give a hand up to all those affected in line with our commitment to support Australian communities which we have demonstrated for more than 164 years.
The Bank’s Community Enterprise Foundation has extensive experience fundraising for communities and those affected by natural disasters and has distributed over $150 million since its inception in 2005.
Bendigo Bank Chief Customer Officer for Consumer Banking, Richard Fennell, said the bank was ready to support customers with homes, businesses and livestock inundated by floodwaters now and in the future.
“We stand ready to help everyone affected by these unseasonal spring floods,” Mr Fennell said.
“We’re particularly concerned for our people, customers and communities impacted by the severe flooding across Victoria and in and around Bendigo. We’re liaising closely with our impacted teams to provide support.
“It’s sad to say but we’ve been here before and we know what to do. For anyone impacted by the floods, please ensure you are following the safety advice issued by your local emergency services.
“Our communities are going to need lots of support now and in the long term. For those wanting to help in any way they can, I urge you to donate to the Victorian Flood Appeal, any contribution will go a long way in supporting the recovery efforts in the immediate aftermath and in the medium and long-term,” Mr Fennell said.
“Bendigo and Adelaide Bank’s longstanding purpose is to feed into the prosperity of the community, not off it. In times like this it’s important that we stand together and that is why we’re launching this appeal today.”
Last week Bendigo and Adelaide Bank announced an Assistance Package for flood-affected customers. A range of measures are now available to eligible customers, who are advised to speak with their local Branch Manager, Business Banking Manager or Agribusiness Relationship Manager when it’s safe to do so.
Alternatively, Bendigo Bank customers can contact its Mortgage Help Centre on 1300 652 146 for more information regarding financial hardship and applying for assistance or visit: www.bendigobank.com.au/support.
How to donate now:
People wishing to support these communities are encouraged to provide monetary donations directly to the Victorian Flood Appeal as monetary donations are quicker, more effective, and logistically provide far more flexibility than donations of material items or pre-loved goods. Donations can be made at any time online or at your local Bendigo Bank branch. All donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.
The Victorian Flood Appeal is a management account of Community Enterprise Foundation™ ABN 69 694 230 518, The Bendigo Centre, PO Box 480, Bendigo, Vic 3552. The Foundation will make distributions by way of grants, following receipt of applications from organisations endorsed with an item 1 Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR).
Support available:
- Up-to-date information on changing flood conditions can be found on the VicEmergency Website
- Victorian government emergency relief assistance payments are available for those impacted by flooding to help with food, shelter, clothing and medication. Submit your application.
- Lifeline’s 24/7 telephone crisis support service is available on 13 11 14.
