Over the past few month, I’ve again been confronted with the reality of the challenges facing a growing number of families in our community.

We hear stories weekly of the struggles that parents face to provide essentials for their children. Many literally living week-to-week due to the high cost of living and the inability to make ends meet. We hear stories of homelessness, unemployment, isolation, lack of support, and many far more complex challenges faced by families working so hard to provide for their children. The reality of the situation is that things are not going to get better anytime soon.

Today, I’m asking for your help as we launch our appeal. We must raise $40,000 by 30 June so we can ensure we can answer every call for help this winter. To be able to provide, among other things, safe, high quality cots, prams and car seats. To be able to provide warm linen and winter clothing to ensure local children don’t suffer during the coldest months of the year. Necessities that you and I have always taken for granted.

I founded Roundabout Canberra over 4 years ago, out of a desire to help families and children in my community experiencing hardship, no matter their circumstances. Our organisation now helps over 2000 children a year. This is an increase of over 450% since our first year of operations. And it’s very clear from the numbers we’re seeing this year that demand will only continue to grow over the coming months.

I’m counting on you today to help us get to our target so we can continue doing what we do best for those in need.