UPDATES:
November 22nd 2024
Christmas Appeal 2024
Hi all. Our annual Christmas appeal has begun. For anyone in a position to donate, we are seeking new, unwrapped gifts for 0-17 year olds. Our Christmas giving tree can be found in the Belgrave library. Presents can be left under the Christmas tree. If dropping the present off at the library isn't an option, you can also drop the present off where our charity is based at the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub (next door to the Belgrave Cameo). We are open Mon-Fri 9:00am-12:30pm. We will be giving away the presents starting from Tuesday December 17th. Presents don't need to be wrapped as we will be displaying them on tables for people to choose from.
From December 17th, we will also be giving out Christmas food and hampers. Food can be dropped off where we are based at the Belgrave Community Hub. The Christmas giving tree in the library is predominantly set up for collecting presents, but you can drop off food there if it's more suitable for you.
The following non-perishable items it would be much appreciated:
Long life milk, non-dairy long life milk, long life custard, jelly crystals, Christmas cakes, Christmas pudding, mince pies, gravy powder, tinned vegetables, coffee, sugar, sweet biscuits, savory biscuits, shortbread, crackers, sweets & lollies, potato chips, chocolate, nuts, canned fruit, tea, pet food.
The cost of living has affected many people, so we are thankful for any donations and/or sharing of our posts. If there's any queries, you can email enquire@drers.org.au or phone 9754-7777. Thank you very much.
October 18th 2024
Annual General Meeting
Hi all. If you would like to attend our AGM on Thursday October 24th please contact us on 9754-7777.
September 25th 2024
CLOSED September 27th and 30th
Hi all. We will be closed this Friday the 27th for the public holiday. We will also be closed on Monday September 30th.
June 27th 2024
PASSING OF JEANETTE
It is with sadness that we share the news of the passing of one of our volunteers, Jeanette.
Janette volunteered with us for more than a decade, helping those in need of emergency relief.
Thank you for being a part of our team. We miss you Jeanette.
April 18th 2024
DANDENONG RANGES COMMUNITY RAFFLE
A big thank you to Community Bank Dandenong Rangesfor providing this raffle with $25,000 worth of gold to be won. 100% of the sales will go to our charity if click on the link below. Tickets are $5 each or less per ticket when bought in multiples. Money raised will be used by us to help people in our local community who are experiencing hardship. The raffle will be drawn on May 2nd 2024. If anyone is in a position to purchase tickets or share this QR code and link to others, it is much appreciated. Thank you very much. https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=kpedy&sref=z48bacbw
August 18th 2024
PEOPLE FIRST COMMUNITYLOTTERY NOW OPEN
The online People First Community Lottery is now open. There are 52 prizes on offer worth more than $300,000 including 2 cars and a solar energy package. Additionally, there is another car available for early bird entries which close May 16th (11:59pm). Tickets are $2 and if you click on the link below, 100% of the proceeds will go to our charity. Entries close July 25th (11:59pm). Entries drawn August 1st (11am). Thank you to anyone who is in a position to buy tickets and also for anyone who can share this post. https://www.communitylottery.com.au/products/dandenong-ranges-emergency-relief?_pos=1&_sid=7d2013a28&_ss=r
April 18th 2024
FOOD TRUCK MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS
On Mondays and Tuesdays JRN Community Housing will have a food truck offering hot food and coffee. It will be located in the car park outside where we are located at the Belgrave Community Hub.
February 27th 2024
UPDATE REGARDING POWER OUTAGE ASSISTANCE
Hi everyone. If you have left a phone message or email, we will get back to you as soon as we can.We have been inundated with requests for help in the last 24 hours since posting about help we can provide for residents of Dandenong Ranges affected by the Feb 13th storms (please see yesterday's post).
As we are not always able to monitor Facebook or Instagram comments, please contact us directly.
February 26th 2024
POWER OUTAGE ASSISTANCE
Do you live in the Dandenong Ranges and lost power because of the storm on Tuesday 13th February 2024? If you are not eligible for a government grant or AUSNET payment, and you had a loss of food and/or extra fuel or ice expenses, please contact Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service to get free vouchers for food and/or fuel.
Please note: Our hours are 9.00am to 12.30pm Monday to Friday, and we can be contacted on 9754 7777 or enquire@drers.org.au
We will reply to messages ASAP.
As we are not always able to monitor Facebook or Instagram comments, please contact us directly.
December 21st 2023
THANK YOU EVERYONE
A big thank you to everyone who has helped us this year. We have assisted more people this year, and could not do it without your generosity.
Thank you very much to everyone who supported our annual Christmas Appeal. We gave out over $14,000 worth of toys and hampers .
We can provide our community with help because our volunteers give their time, and we cannot thank our volunteers enough. We are truly grateful for everything our volunteers do.
December 19th 2023
CLOSING AND RE-OPENING DATES
Hi all. Our last day for this year is Thursday December 21st (9am until 12:30pm). We will be re-open Tuesday January 16th 2024 (9am until 12:30pm).
November 21st 2023
CHRISTMAS APPEAL 2023
Christmas Appeal 2023
Hi all. Our annual Christmas appeal has begun. For anyone in a position to donate, we are seeking new, unwrapped gifts for 0-17 year olds. Our Christmas giving tree can be found in the Belgrave library. Presents can be left under the Christmas tree. If dropping the present off at the library isn't an option, you can also drop the present off where our charity is based at the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub (next door to the Belgrave Cameo). We are open Mon-Fri 9:00am-12:30pm. We will be giving away the presents starting from Monday December 18th. Presents don't need to be wrapped as we will be displaying them on tables for people to choose from.
From December 18th, we will also be giving out Christmas food and hampers. Food can be dropped off where we are based at the Belgrave Community Hub. The Christmas giving tree in the library is predominantly set up for collecting presents, but you can drop off food there if it's more suitable for you. The cost of living has affected many people, so we are thankful for any donations and/or sharing of our posts. If there's any queries, you can email enquire@drers.org.au or phone 9754-7777. Thank you very much.
November 9th 2023
COMMUNITY RAFFLE FOR OUR CHARITY
A big thank you to Community Bank Dandenong Ranges for providing this raffle with $25,000 worth of gold to be won. 100% of the sales will go to our charity if you click on the link below. Tickets are $5 each or less per ticket when bought in multiples. Money raised will be used by us to help people in our local community who are experiencing hardship. Entries for the raffle close May 2024. If anyone is in a position to purchase tickets or share this unique link to others, it is much appreciated. Thank you very much. https://www.raffletix.com.au/?ref=kpedy&sref=z48bacbw
November 2nd 2023
CLOSED NOVEMBER 6th & 7th
Hi all. We will be closed on Monday November 6th and Tuesday November 7th. We will re-open Wednesday the 8th from 9am until 12:30pm. For further enquiries please email enquire@drers.org.au or call 9754-7777. We apologise for any inconvenience.
November 1st 2023
UPDATED LIST OF SUBURBS WE COVER
Hi everyone. The home page of our website now has an updated list of suburbs we cover. For some suburbs, we can provide both groceries and financial assistance. For the other suburbs, we can provide groceries but not financial assistance as we do not have funding for those suburbs.
October 17th 2023
2023 Annual General Meeting
Hi everyone. Our AGM will be held on October 29th at 12:30pm at the Belgrave Community Hub. Please RVSP by October 20th to enquire@drers.org.au to register your attendance. Thank you.
May 24th 2023
DROP IN CENTRE NOW OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY
Hi all. Our 'Mi Place' drop in centre here at the Belgrave Community Hub will now be open Monday to Friday. It's open 9am until 12:30pm. Everyone is welcome for a bite to eat, a place to hang out, play some table tennis, arcade car racing, pool table, and board games. It's all free.
May 15th 2023
DROP IN CENTRE NOW ALSO OPEN ON THURSDAYS
Hi all. Our 'Mi Place' drop in centre here at the Belgrave Community Hub will now be open on Thursdays as well as the usual Wednesdays and Fridays. It's open 9am until 12:30pm. Everyone is welcome for a bite to eat, a place to hang out, play some table tennis, arcade car racing, pool table, and board games. It's all free.
April 21st 2023
CLOSED MONDAY & TUESDAY
Hi all. Due to unforeseen circumstances we will be closed on Monday. With Tuesday being a public holiday for Anzac Day, we will be open Wednesday April 26th. Sorry for any inconvenience.
March 29th 2023
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Are you having financial difficulties with the rising cost of living and interest rates? You do not have to be on a Centrelink, you just need to live in our funded area (see drers.org.au) to be able to receive financial assistance from us. If you cannot visit us during our opening hours due to work obligations, you can contact us by calling 9754-7777 or email us at enquire@drers.org.au Our service is free and confidential. We are located on the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub, Mon-Fri 9am until 12:30pm.
March 10th 2023
EASTER FOOD DRIVE
Hi all. We have a food drive leading up to Easter. If anyone is in a position to donate any non-perishable food it would be much appreciated. Food can be dropped off either at our reception on the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub (Mon-Fri 9am until 12:30pm). Alternatively, we have collection baskets inside the Belgrave Library.
Suggested items: Easter Eggs, Long life milk, Breakfast cereal, Vegemite, Peanut butter, Jam, Canned fish, Two-minute noodles, Coffee.
Thank you very much.
March 10th 2023
CLOSED MONDAY FOR PUBLIC HOLIDAY
Hi everyone. We will be closed Monday March 13th for the Labour Day public holiday. Sorry for any inconvenience. We will return open on Tuesday March 14th at 9am until 12:30pm.
February 21st 2023
SEEKING LONG TERM VOLUNTEERS
Hi all. We are seeking long term volunteers for our charity. If you can help out with any of the roles listed below, we'd love to hear from you. For any queries, please email enquire@drers.org.au, call 9754-7777, or come in for a chat between 9am and 12:30pm Mon-Fri on the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub. Thank you very much.
Emergency Relief: work with clients on how we can assist with food, vouchers, bills and any other services needed.
Mi Place drop in centre: prepare basic meals, facilitate socialisation, board games, billiards and table tennis.
Op Shop (located on main street of Belgrave): serving customers and/or sorting through donations.
January 25th 2023
OUR OP SHOP HAS AN EBAY PAGE!
Hi all. Our Op Shop on the main street of Belgrave now has an Ebay page! Thank you very much for the support. Here's the link:
https://www.ebay.com.au/usr/belgraveopshop?fbclid=IwAR3nvU_eQUNlWKm7z_aPDly7pXU_IDjcpe2Dz7_slB6UZsSfAsgacuHf1f8
January 25th 2023
ONLINE RAFFLE SUPPORTING OUR CHARITY
Hi everyone. The following online raffle has 43 prizes on offer including cars and a solar/battery package totalling over $300,000. Tickets are $2 and 100% of sales go to our charity. Ticket sales close March 2nd 2023. Thank you for the support. Here is the link:
https://www.communitylottery.com.au/products/dandenong-ranges-emergency-relief?_pos=1&_sid=f2ae497f9&_ss=r&fbclid=IwAR2WYH_CZAUm4fBcUc5mHNt-WHPmLqBTM2VUG8CNJbyLDuQKQRu-eB7Y0bc
January 23rd 2023
BACK TO SCHOOL FOOD
Hi everyone. If anyone is in a position to help with donations of non-perishable food, we would appreciate it very much. Because of back to school requests we are particularly looking for food such as spreads (vegemite, peanut butter), muesli bars, 2 minute noodles, long milk and breakfast cereals. Thank you very much.
(Please note we will be closed for the public holiday Thursday January 26th.)
December 22nd 2022
THANK YOU EVERYONE
Hi all. Thank you very much to everyone who donated gifts and shared info about our annual Christmas Appeal. Thank you once again to Belgrave Library for letting us put up our Giving Tree in the library for people to leave presents under. Thank you to everyone who did their own collection or donated individually.
And thank you very much to everyone who supported us throughout the year. Whether it was through donations, sharing info, or anything else, we really appreciate it. It's been a challenging year for many and it was great to see the community come together. We wish everyone a festive Christmas period. Thank you all.
December 20th 2022
DATES of closure and re-opening
Hi everyone. The last day we are open this year is Thursday December 22nd from 9am until 12:30pm. We re-open Monday January 16th 2023.
Police, fire brigade or ambulance call 000. Beyond Blue call 1300 224 636. Lifeline call 13 11 14.
The link below lists other groups who may be open during our closure period. Please contact these groups before arriving as we cannot confirm they will definitely be open or closed in the upcoming weeks.
December 7th 2022
CHRISTMAS RAFFLE
Hi all. The Royal & Ranges Christmas Windows Raffle is back on for 2022. There's lots of great prizes on offer and all proceeds go to our charity. A big thank you to the businesses who are supporting the raffle. We really appreciate it. And thank you to Lisa for helping co-ordinate the raffle. The draw takes place Friday December 16th at 1pm.
Tickets are $2 and can be bought from the following locations:
Royal FTG Hotel, Hahndorf's Fine Chocolates Upper Ferntree Gully, Augustus Gelatery (Upper Ferntree Gully), FoodWorks (Ferntree Gully), The Basin Pantry, The Basin Free Range and Grass Fed Meats butcher, Silhouette Grooming & Pet Supplies Upwey, Upwey Pizza, Upwey Cricket Club, The Blacksmith (Belgrave) , Belgrave Book Barn, Belgrave Bakery Italian Pasticceria, Micawber Tavern
Thank you everyone for the support!
December 6th 2022
CLOSED THURSDAY DECEMBER 8TH
Hi all. Due to unforeseen circumstances our reception and emergency relief service (lower level of Belgrave Community Hub) will be closed Thursday December 8th. We'll be back open the following day. We apologise for any inconvenience.
December 6th 2022
UPDATE ON CHRISTMAS APPEAL
Thank you very much to everyone who has donated presents and food for our annual Christmas Appeal so far. And thank you to everyone who has shared the info.
We have another week before we start handing out the presents and food. All presents for age groups up to 17 are welcomed. At this stage, we don't have as many presents for teenagers, so if anyone is in a position to help with that it would be great. Ideas include vouchers, sporting equipment, electric gadgets. Toys and food can be left at our reception on the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub Mon-Fri between 9am and 12:30pm. We also have a giving Christmas tree at the Belgrave Library where presents can be left under (the tree is predominantly for toys, but if people can't make it to our reception at the Belgrave Community Hub, food can be left under the tree.
*due to unforeseen circumstances our reception and emergency relief service will be closed Thursday 8th December. We'll be back open the following day.
Thank you very much for the support.
November 14th 2022
CHRISTMAS APPEAL 2022
Christmas Appeal 2022
Hi all. Our annual Christmas appeal has begun. For anyone in a position to donate, we are seeking new, unwrapped gifts for 0-17 year olds. We are also seeking non-perishable food. Our Christmas giving tree can be found in the Belgrave library. Presents can be left under the Christmas tree. If dropping the present off at the library isn't an option, you can also drop the present off where our charity is based at the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub (next door to the Belgrave Cameo). We are open Mon-Fri 9:00am-12:30pm. We will be giving away the presents starting from December 13th. Presents don't need to be wrapped as we will be displaying them on tables for people to choose from.
From December 13th, we will also be giving out Christmas food and hampers. Food can be dropped off where we are based at the Belgrave Community Hub. The Christmas giving tree in the library is predominantly set up for collecting presents, but you can drop off food there if it's more suitable for you. The following non-perishable items it would be much appreciated:
Long life milk, non-dairy long life milk, long life custard, jelly crystals, Christmas cakes, Christmas pudding, mince pies, gravy powder, tinned vegetables, coffee, sugar, sweet biscuits, savory biscuits, shortbread, crackers, sweets & lollies, potato chips, chocolate, nuts, canned fruit, tea, pet food.
It's been a challenging year for many, so we are thankful for any donations people can help with. If there's any queries, you can email enquire@drers.org.au or phone 9754-7777. Thank you very much.
October 26th 2022
WE ARE CLOSED MONDAY OCTOBER 31st and TUESDAY NOVEMBER 1st
We will be closed Monday October 31st and Tuesday November 1st. We apologise for any inconvenience. We will be back open Wednesday November 2nd from9am until 12:30pm.
October 26th 2022
HALLOWEEN EVENT
Our Op Shop on the main street of Belgrave will be staying open late this Friday to be one of the participating shops for the Halloween event on Friday October 28th from 4pm until 6:30pm. We will have lollies for the trick or treat. The event will include DJ's, street performers and spot prizes amongst other fun.
October 14th 2022
WE ARE CLOSED MONDAY OCTOBER 17th
We will be closed Monday October 17th. We apologise for any inconvenience. We will be back open Tuesday October 18th9am until 12:30pm.
October 13th 2022
BELGRAVE LIBRARY ADULT CLOTHES SWAP FUNDRAISER FOR OUR OP SHOP
Need to refresh your wardrobe?
Stop by Belgrave Library's clothing swap to find exciting new shirts, skirts, and more!
Fri 21 October - 10am to 5pm
You can donate items of clothing to the Belgrave library prior to the event in exchange for tokens, or bring them on the day. Items can be purchased on the day for 1 token each, or $1 each.
Please ensure donated items are freshly laundered, they are not damaged, and they are still in good condition.
General rule of thumb: If you wouldn't take it home, it's unlikely anyone else would. We only accept adult clothing.
*No undergarments, swimwear, or sleepwear.
https://www.facebook.com/EasternRegional/posts/5747059575338448
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cjg-YTQObWf/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
October 3rd 2022
25th ANNIVERSARY
Today, is the 25th anniversary of our organisation. We are truly grateful for the amazing work of the volunteers past and present. We are also extremely grateful for all the support people have given us over the past 25 years. We look forward to a future with no poverty or hunger. Until then we plan to be here for anyone who needs us.
September 30th 2022
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Our 2022 AGM is on October 12th at 12:30pm at the Belgrave Community Hub. Please let us know if you would like to attend by emailing enquire@drers.org.au
September 1st 2022
SEEKING WEEKEND BBQ VOLUNTEERS
Do you have a few hours to give on Saturdays to help people who are disadvantaged?
We are seeking volunteers to do a sausage sizzle on Saturdays at the Upper Ferntree Gully market to raise funds for Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service.
Grab your partner or friend and come and be part of our team. Please call 9754-7777 or email enquire@drers.org.au Thank you kindly.
July 18th 2022
HAIR DONATION FUNDRAISER COMPLETED
Thank you to everyone who donated to our recent haircut fundraiser. Our volunteer had 40cm of hair cut off. Thank you to Mel for the cut. The money raised will be used to run our services. The hair will be donated to Real Fringe Hair Bands, who are a charity providing hair for oncology and alopecia patients. The following link provides photos of the hair cut: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=5238415209613222&id=429683940486397
June 1st 2022
HAIR DONATION FUNDRAISER
Hi all. Holy hair! One of our volunteers is hoping to raise money for our charity by cutting 30cm off her hair at the end of June! She will then donate the hair to Real Fringe Hair Bands, who are a charity providing hair for oncology and alopecia patients.
If anyone is in a position to support our fundraiser, please click on our charity's GIVENOW webpage link below. Alternatively, cash or eftpos at our reception at the Belgrave Community Hub (Mon-Fri 9am-12:30pm) is welcome. You can also direct deposit – BSB 633-000 Account # 140850967 – please email us your contact details for us to provide you a receipt. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.
After the haircut we will post photos. Thank you very much for the support.
https://www.givenow.com.au/dandenongrangesemergencyrelief
April 21st 2022
DONATIONS WE WOULD APPRECIATE
Hi everyone. Thank you for the donations we receive. It really helps our charity. If anyone is in a position to do so, we would appreciate donations of food. Examples include cereal, vegemite, peanut butter, tuna, milk. Our op shop on the main street of Belgrave is also seeking donations. Bric-a-brac, clothing, and other items are much appreciated. We aren't able to sell electrical items and due to space restrictions we can't sell furniture. Thank you kindly for your assistance.
March 28th 2022
DONATIONS WANTED FOR OP SHOP
Hi all. By donating your pre-loved items to Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Services Op Shop they will get a new life and support local community.This also helps reduce landfill and the impact on the environment. We appreciate your support. Our Op Shop is located on the main street of Belgrave.
March 28th 2022
SEEKING OP SHOP VOLUNTEERS
Hi all. Our Op Shop on the main street of Belgrave is seeking volunteers. We've been able to open up a little more recently, but would like to open daily on a regular basis. If you're interested in helping your community and have some free time, please email us at enquire@drers.org.au or call 9754-7777. Thanks very much.
March 14th 2022
OP SHOP OPEN TUESDAY MARCH 15TH
Hi everyone. Our Op Shop will be open Tuesday March 15th. It isn't usually open on Tuesdays, but next week it will be open 11am-3pm. Our shop is located on the main street of Belgrave. Come in and grab a bargain. Thank you for your support.
March 14th 2022
CLOSED LABOUR DAY
Hi all. We will be closed on Monday March 14th for the Labour Day public holiday. We will be back open at the Belgrave Community Hub on Tuesday March 15th from9am-12:30pm
February 18th 2022
OUR OP SHOP INSTAGRAM PAGE
Hi all. In the coming weeks, we are looking to have our op shop open more. Our op shop has a separate Instagram page where you can check out some of the items on offer. Thanks for your support. Here's the page: https://www.instagram.com/belgraveopshop/
February 7th 2022
ONLINE RAFFLE CLOSING FEBRUARY 24th
Hi all. February 24th is the closing date for purchasing tickets for the People's Choice Community Lottery. Our charity receives 100% of ticket sales when you buy through the following link. Tickets are $2. There are 41 prizes including 2 cars and a grand home package worth over $300,000 in total. Thanks very much for your support!
https://communitylottery.peopleschoice.com.au/products/dandenong-ranges-emergency-relief?_pos=1&_sid=3c1bd5729&_ss=r&fbclid=IwAR3l6gffBvTRWUjSqpI47FdPZekrOoxLZJHczLADcPSY2O3AXAEtRV1Qt64
January 31st 2022
MI PLACE DROP IN CENTRE RE-OPENING
Hi all. Our Mi-Place drop in centre will be re-opening this Wednesday February the 2nd. Going forward we plan to have it open every Wednesday and Friday from 9:30am until 12:30pm.
January 20th 2022
SEEKING OP SHOP VOLUNTEERS
Hi all. We're seeking volunteers for our Op Shop on the main street of Belgrave. If you can spare a few hours we would love to hear from you. Please call 9754-7777 or email: enquire@drers.org.au Thanks very much.
January 14th 2022
COVID-19 VACCINATIONS AVAILABLE
COVID-19 vaccination clinic coming to Inspiro at the Belgrave Community Hub. EACH will be running a pop-up clinic at the Belgrave Hub to provide AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccinations for everyone 12 and up. Booster shots are available. No appointments are necessary: walk-ins are welcome.
The pop-up will run on 17, 19, 20, 21 January from 10am to 3pm. Spread the word!
January 13th 2022
MI PLACE DROP IN CENTRE RE-OPENING SOON
Hi all. We are planning to re-open our Mi Place drop in centre in the near future. More updates to follow. Cheers from team DRERS.
January 10th 2022
WE ARE OPEN IN 2022
Hi everyone. Here's hoping you are doing ok. We are back open again for 2022. Our hours are the same: Monday - Friday 9am - 12:30pm. Best wishes.
December 21st 2021
THURSDAY 23rd OUR LAST DAY OPEN THIS YEAR. PLUS CONTACTS OF OTHER GROUPS
Hi all. The last daywe are open this year is Thursday December the 23rd. We will be open again on Monday January the 10th. For the 2 weeks we are closed, the following link has listings of other groups who might be open. Please contact these groups before arriving as due to shortage of staff here we have been unable confirm exact times and dates they will be open.
Police, fire brigade or ambulance call 000.
Beyond Blue call 1300 224 636
Lifeline call 13 11 14
For contacts of other groups, please click on the following link:
December 17th 2021
WINNING ENTRIES FOR THE ROYAL & RANGES CHRISTMAS RAFFLE
Congratulations to the following winners of the Royal & Ranges Christmas Raffle. Thank you very much for all the businesses who supported the raffle and to Lisa for organising it. If you have the following numbers, you have won 1 of the 23 prizes. Lisa will be contacting you to arrange a delivery of your prize. Thanks for your support.
(1) ticket number 270, (2) ticket number 590, (3) ticket number 340, (4) ticket number 586 (5) ticket number 582 (6) ticket number 594 (7) ticket number 277 , (8) ticket number 603, (9) ticket number 183, (10) ticket number 193, (11) ticket number 441, (12) ticket number 442, (13) ticket number 038, (14) ticket number 446 , (15) ticket number 033, (16) ticket number 275, (17) ticket number 011, (18) ticket number 394 (19) ticket number 323, (20) ticket number 229, (21) ticket number 178, (22) ticket number 050, (23) ticket number 175
December 7th 2021
CHRISTMAS CAROLS
Hi all. Christmas Carols at the Belgrave Heights Convention Centre are back on again this year. December 19th at 7pm. It's free entry. A gold coin donation is asked. Any proceeds after the costs of running the event will be donated to our charity. If anyone is in a position to help with running costs for the event, the following gofundme page is set up http://gofund.me/4cf8ac8a This year bookings are made prior to the event on the following link: https://www.trybooking.com/BWAEV In following with Covid-19 regulations, there won't be some of the usual activities. There will still be a Cafe for food and drinks. For more info, please see the following flyer: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=4560053054116111&id=429683940486397 Thank you very much.
December 1 2021
FUNDRAISER CONCERT DECEMBER 5th
A big thank you to Jacqui Rutten from Sacred Stage and all the artists who will be holding a fundraiser concert for our charity on Sunday December 5th at 2pm. The event will take place at the Dandenong Ranges Music Council in Upwey. Interested attendees can book at www.trybooking.com/BQMEN or email info@sacredstage.com.au and make a donation at door. Thank you. Thank you also to Star Mail News for promoting the concert in the local newspaper. The article can be read on this following link: https://ferntreegully.mailcommunity.com.au/entertainment/2021-11-23/charity-through-nature-and-song/
November 24 2021
CHRISTMAS WINDOWS RAFFLE
Hi all. The Royal & Ranges Christmas Windows Raffle is back on. There's lots of great prizes on offer and all proceeds go to our charity. Tickets are $2 and can be bought from the following locations: Hahndorf's Fine Chocolates, The Royal Hotel UFTG, Station St Food Co FTG, The Basin Pantry, Silhouette Grooming & Pet Supplies Upwey, Manna Gum Garden Supplies, and Upwey Pizza. A big thank you to Lisa for organising it and all the businesses who are donating prizes. Much appreciated. Tickets will he drawn on December 17th at our reception. Thank you for your support.
For a listing of the prizes on offer, please click the following link: https://www.facebook.com/Dandenong-Ranges-Emergency-Relief-Service-Inc-429683940486397/photos/pcb.4518295264958557/4518295204958563/
November 18 2021
ONLINE RAFFLE TO SUPPORT OUR CHARITY
Hi all. Would you like to win a car and support our charity? The People's Choice Community Lottery is on again and you can follow the below link to buy $2 tickets for your chance to win one of 41 prizes including 2 cars and a grand home package worth over $300,000 in total. Our charity receives 100% of ticket sales through the following link. Thanks very much!
https://communitylottery.peopleschoice.com.au/products/dandenong-ranges-emergency-relief?_pos=1&_sid=3c1bd5729&_ss=r
November 16 2021
OUR ANNUAL CHRISTMAS APPEAL HAS BEGUN
Hi all. Our annual Christmas appeal has begun. For anyone in a position to donate, we are seeking new, unwrapped gifts for 0-17 year olds. We are also seeking non-perishable food. Our Christmas giving tree can be found in the Belgrave library. Presents can be left under the Christmas tree. If dropping the present off at the library isn't an option, you can also drop the present off where our charity is based at the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub (next door to the Belgrave Cameo). We are open Mon-Fri 9:00am-12:30pm. We will be giving away the presents starting from December 16th. Presents don't need to be wrapped as we will be displaying them on tables for people to choose from.
From December 16th, we will also be giving out Christmas food and hampers. Food can be dropped off where we are based at the Belgrave Community Hub. The Christmas giving tree in the library is predominantly set up for collecting presents, but you can drop off food there if it's more suitable for you. A list of suggested food items to donate can be found below. It's been a challenging year for many, so we are thankful for any donations people can help with. If there's any queries, you can email enquire@drers.org.au or phone 9754-7777. Thank you very much.
Suggested non-perishable food to donate to our annual Christmas Appeal:
Christmas pudding, Christmas cake, long life custard, long life milk, non-dairy long life milk, sweet biscuits, savoury biscuits shortbread, jelly crystals, crackers, sweets & lollies, potato chips, mince pies, chocolate, gravy powder, nuts, tinned vegetables tinned fruit, coffee , tea, sugar, pet food
October 29 2021
PLANNED OP SHOP OPENING HOURS
Hi everyone. Our plan is to have our Op Shop open next week (except Tuesday & Sunday). Hours are likely to vary in the upcoming weeks. At this stage, we are hoping to be open at the following times next week. However, we cannot be 100% sure about this.
Mon 9am -1pm
Tues closed
Wed 11am -3pm
Thur 10am -4pm
Fri 10am - 1pm (possibly 11-2pm)
Sat 10am - 1pm (possibly 11-2pm)
Sun closed
Thanks for understanding about potential changes to hours, and we look forward to seeing you.
October 26 2021
OUR OP SHOP IS RE-OPENING
Hi all. We are planning to re-open our Op Shop on Monday (November 1st). We're sorting out hours and volunteer shifts at the moment and will give updates when we have more news. Our Op Shop is located on the main street of Belgrave. Thanks for your support!
October 19 2021
CLOSED THURSDAY
Hi all. We will be closed Thursday the 21st of October due to continued unforseen circumstances (not Covid-19 related). We will be open this week on Wednesday the 20th and Friday the 22nd of October. We apologise for any inconvenience.
October 15 2021
CLOSED TUESDAY
Hi all. We will be closed Tuesday the 19th of October due to unforseen circumstances (not Covid-19 related). We apologise for any inconvenience.
October 11 2021
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Our Annual General Meeting will take place on October 20th 2021 at 1pm via Zoom. If you wish to attend, please email enquire@drers.org.au so that we can send you an invitation link.
September 27 2021
SEEKING LONG TERM VOLUNTEERS
Hi all. We are seeking long term volunteers. If you are interested, please phone us on 9754-7777 or email enquire@drers.org.au. Thank you very much.
POSITION DESCRIPTIONS:
EMERGENCY RELIEF -work with clients on how we can assist with food, vouchers, bills and any other services needed.
OP SHOP - serving customers and/or sorting through donations
September 21 2021
CLOSED FOR GRAND FINAL EVE PUBLIC HOLIDAY
Hi everyone. We will be closed on Friday September 24th for the Grand Final Eve public holiday. We will be back open as usual from Monday September 27th. Our organisation will remain open throughout the lockdown period. The way we provide service may be altered as we navigate through the Covid-19 rules & regulations. But we will remain open Mon-Fri 9 -12:30pm at the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub.
September 9 2021
R U OK? Day
Today is R U Ok? day. Like every other day, it's a great day for asking others if they are ok. R U Ok?
August 19 2021
VOLUNTEERING
Thank you to everyone who has offered to volunteer with us during the lockdowns and the recent storm. We appreciate the offers of volunteering, but we are only able to take on long-term volunteers due to the time it takes to do police checks, working with children checks, and to train volunteers to be fully prepared to assist our community. We do not have any short-term positions, even during emergencies. We really are grateful for the offers though. If you are interested in volunteering long term, please phone 9754-7777 or email: enquire@drers.org.au
August 6 2021
WE ARE OPEN DURING LOCKDOWN
Hi all. Just a reminder our organisation comes under 'Health & Community Services' and therefore our emergency relief service will still be open
Mon - Fri 9am until 12:30pm during lockdowns. You are able to travel more than 5km from where you live to get assistance from us. For a full list of suburbs we cover, please see the front page of our website. Our Mi Place drop in centre is closed for sit down meals but we can offer take away meals. The public showers here at the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub will be open Mon-Fri 9am until 12:30pm.
August 5 2021
SEEKING OP SHOP VOLUNTEER
Hi everyone. We are hoping to open up our Belgrave op shop on Sundays. We are seeking a volunteer to help with serving customers and/or sorting through donations. If you can help please email enquire@drers.org.au or call 9754-7777. Thank you very much.
July 30 2021
SINGLE DOONAS and EURO PILLOWS
Hi all.We have single doonas and square euro pillows for people in need who were affected by the storms or live in one of the suburbs our organisation covers (see front page of website for suburbs we cover) . For more info please contact us on 9754-7777 , email enquire@drers.org.au or come in and see us. Our organisation is open Mon-Fri 9-12:30pm at the Belgrave Community Hub.
July 28 2021
NEXT WEEK IS NATIONAL HOMELESSNESS WEEK
Next week is National Homelessness Week. It would be lovely if everyone could take off their shoes and step into a safe home environment. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Homelessness doesn't always mean people sleeping on the street or parks. Homelessness includes people sleeping in cars, staying at friend's houses, and any situation that means not having safe, stable housing. Our organisation assists people who are homeless, and also helps prevent it occurring.
July 19 2021
PUBLIC SHOWERS AVAILABLE DURING LOCKDOWN
Hi everyone. The 2 public showers on the bottom level of the Belgrave Community Hub will be open during lockdown. The showers are available at the following times: Mon - Fri (9am until 1pm). Not open on weekends. Contact tracing details will be required.
July 16 2021
WE ARE OPEN DURING LOCKDOWN
Hi all. Our organisation comes under 'Health & Community Services.' Therefore our emergency relief service will still be open
Mon - Fri 9am until 12:30pm during lockdowns. You are able to travel more than 5km from where you live to get assistance from us. For a full list of suburbs we cover, please see the front page of our website. The public showers here in the Belgrave Community Hub will remain open, and we also offer take away meals. And for those affected by the recent storms we are here to provide assistance. www.drers.org.au
July 14 2021
WE HAVE A TABLE TENNIS TABLE AT OUR DROP IN CENTRE!
The table tennis table at our 'Mi Place' drop in centre has been a big hit. Everyone is welcome to have a play. And in the near future there will be a billiards table arriving! At the moment, the drop in centre here at the Belgrave Community Hub is open from 9-12:30pm Mon, Wed, Fri.
July 5 2021
CLOSED THURSDAY JULY 8th
Hi all. We will be closed onThursday the 8th of July for admin purposes. We apologise for any inconvenience. We will be back open on Friday the 9th.
July 2 2021
FINAL DAY COUNCIL IS KEEPING HUB OPEN UNTIL 8PM
Hi all. We've just been informed that today is the final day the council will be keeping the Belgrave Community Hub open until 8pm for anyone who was affected by the storms and needs to use the Hub for showers, collecting supplies, or speaking to the council staff who are stationed here. For any queries please call the council storm relief phone number on 1300 368 333.
Our Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service charity will continue to operate here at the Hub from 9-12:30pm Mon-Fri if anyone needs assistance whether you have been impacted by the storm or something else. For any queries please call 9754-7777 or email enquire@drers.org.au Thank you.
June 28 2021
STORM AND DONATION UPDATE
Hi all. Most houses now have their power restored after the recent storms. Thank you very much to everyone who has donated items. Here at the Belgrave Community Hub we have enough donations for now. We are here for those who are still in crisis. This is not over yet. For any queries please email us at enquire@drers.org.au or call 9754-7777.
June 28 2021
SERVICES AUSTRALIA
Hi all. The Services Australia bus is in Belgrave today (Reynolds Lane, outside St Thomas More's Catholic Church) until 4pm. They can offer assistance for people who've been severely affected by the recent storms. There are 4 staff who can help with Disaster Relief payments. Tomorrow they plan to be be in Monbulk near the RSL from 9:30am until 4pm, and on Wednesday at the Olinda recreation reserve from 9:30am until 4pm. For any further information please call the Australian government information line on 180 22 66.
June 25 2021
COMMUNITY STORM RECOVERY
Community Storm Recovery
Hi all. It's great to hear that more houses have had their power restored. There are still houses without power though, and we will continue to offer support.
Looking ahead, we are trying to make sure we have help lined up for all the people who are displaced due to being unable to return to their property for weeks or even months because of damage from the storms.
To date, we've been helping people with some free short term hotel accommodation thanks largely to the kind monetary donations of the public. Moving forward, we will be looking to assist people with longer term accommodation eg: for people awaiting insurance decisions.
We will also be trying to assist people with repair jobs for water tank damage, driveway repairs, minor home repairs, assistance with insurance excesses etc….
Many people are struggling financially (including those who already live pay cheque to pay cheque) because of additional costs of living without electricity for a prolonged period of time eg: spending money on fuel to travel to do laundry, shower, purchasing fuel and running generators, replacing household items, buying food daily, and replacing lost food from fridge and freezers etc..
If anyone is in a position to help with monetary donations for us to assist those in need moving forward, we greatly appreciate any donation you can offer. There are a few different options to donate money.
- You can donate online through our GiveNow website:
https://www.givenow.com.au/dandenongrangesemergencyrelief
Our organisation is an incorporated association (ABN 80 454 546 928) which has a Deductable Gift Recipient status from the ATO. Wow! What that means for you is that any donation you make to DRERS over $2.00 is deductible on your tax return.
-Direct deposit – BSB 633-000 Account # 140850967 – please email us your contact details for us to provide you a receipt.
- Snail mail a cheque made out to DRERS to PO Box 744, Belgrave Vic 3160. Please make sure you leave your contact details with your cheque for us to provide you a receipt.
Thank you very much.
June 25 2021
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND DROP OFF/ PICK UP OF DONATIONS
Hi all. The Belgrave Community Hub (1616-1624 Burwood Highway, Belgrave) will be open over the weekend for dropping off and collecting of donated items. The Hub will be open 8am until 8pm.
If you require any financial assistance from our organisation such as free hotel accommodation, fuel vouchers, and other enquiries please come to the Hub Mon-Fri 9-12:30pm. If it's outside of those hours, please email enquire@drers.org.au or call 9754-7777 and we will get back to you to discuss how we can assist.
Thank you very much.
June 24 2021
UPDATE ON DONATIONS NEEDED
Update on donations needed:
Thanks to everyone who has donated. For those asking what the latest feedback is, we are told there's a need for large candles, shampoo, toothpaste, packets of soup, sweet and/or savoury snacks, pet food (dry/wet cat & dog food) and small long life milk.
At the moment the Belgrave Community Hub (1616-1624 Burwood Highway, Belgrave) is open for drop off and collection of donations from 8am until 8pm every day of the week. For any enquires, please email us at enquire@drers.org.au or call 9754-7777. Thank you very much.
June 24 2021
FUELVOUCHERS
Hi everyone. We have fuel vouchers available for people in the Dandenong Ranges who've been affected by the storms. You can come in to the Belgrave Community Hub between 9 and 12:30pm Mon-Fri to pick up. If you are unable to come in during that time, please email us at enquire@drers.org.au or call 9754-7777 and we can work out a way for you to get the vouchers.
June 22 2021
uPDATE ON DONATIONS NEEDED
Hi all. For those who've said they would like to donate items, we are receiving feedback that the most in need items are thermal clothing such as socks, hot water bottles, lamps, hand warmers, toe warmers, fire lighters, matches, charged power banks, gloves/mittens, and small long life milk.
We are still hearing reports that many homes could be without power until July 10th. The temperature gets below zero in places here in the hills, so keeping warm is a challenge for many.
Donations can be dropped off at the Belgrave Community Hub - 1616-1624 Burwood Highway, Belgrave - (next door to the Belgrave Cameo). The Hub is open for dropping off and collection of donations from 8am until 8pm each day of the week. For any enquiries, you can email us at enquire@drers.org.au or call 9754-7777. Thank you very much.
June 20 2021
7 Eleven vouchers
We now have 7 Eleven vouchers. Each is worth $50. If you are in the Dandenong Ranges and have been affected by the storm damage, we can help with financial assistance. We can help with free hotel accommodation, fuel vouchers, purchasing fire wood, 7 Eleven vouchers or other enquiries. Please email us at enquire@drers.org.au, call 9754-7777 or come to the Belgrave Community Hub. If coming to the hub for finacial assistance from us, please arrive from 9-12:30pm Mon-Fri.
*Collection of donated items from the Belgrave Community Hubis available 8am until 8pm every day of the week.
June 21 2021
THANK YOU FOR THE MONETARY DONATIONS
Hi everyone. Thank you very much for the monetary donations we've received. It's a great help. The money is getting used for providing free hotel accommodation, fuel vouchers for generators and gas bbqs, hiring/purchasing generators, purchasing fire wood, and any other things that people require. Thanks once again.
June 20 2021
UPDATE ON DONATIONS REQUIRED
Update on donations needed:
Hi all. We've been out to surrounding areas giving out the donations we've received. We received feedback from residents today that there are a few items in particular that are needed more of. The items are hand warmers, long matches, fire lighters, charged power banks, thermal socks, big torches with batteries, head lamps, hurricane lamps, and small long life milk. As mentioned in an earlier post today, we have put a pause on other donation items to the Belgrave Community Hub for the immediate coming days as we've got a good amount of supplies at the moment. We will continue to update if we hear of particular items needed. If anyone is able to donate those items listed above though it would be great. For the time being, the Belgrave Community Hub (1616-1624 Burwood Highway, Belgrave) is open 8am until 8pm. Thank you very much.
June 20 2021
FREE BP FUEL VOUCHERS
Hi all. If you have been affected by the storms and need help with fuel costs, we have BP fuel vouchers to help run generators, cars, bbq's , and other needs. If you are able to please email us or call us today at enquire@drers.org.au or phone 9754-7777. From Mon-Fri 9am until 12:30pm please come in to the Belgrave Community Hub (1616- 1624 Burwood Highway, Belgrave). If you know anyone who could use a voucher please let them know.
June 20 2021
FREE HOTEL ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE FOR PEOPLE AFFECTED BY THE STORM
If you have been impacted by the storm, please email us today at enquire@drers.org.au or call 9754-7777. We will be out on the road at times doing outreach, but Mon-Fri you can also if able come to the Belgrave Community Hub (1616-1624 Burwood , Belgrave) and speak to one of our Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service volunteers. Please confirm that the volunteer is indeed with Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service. Please arrive here between 9am and 1pm. We can arrange free accommodation for you in some lovely hotels around the eastern and inner suburbs of Melbourne . A big thanks to Hannah and Sigrid for arranging the donations that we will use to provide the hotel rooms for free for those affected by the storms. Please don't hesitate to get in touch with us.
JUNE 20 2021
COOKED FOOD AVAILABLE.
We have quite a number of cooked meals available at the Belgrave Community Hub (1616-1624 Burwood Highway, Belgrave). It's mostly Vegan food (vegan shepherds pie and also a vegan curry dish) along with some steamed rice, fried rice, and also some chicken broth. Some meals are refrigerated, some frozen. The Hub is open 8am until 8pm each day at the moment. We have public showers available for use. You can also use the power here for charging phones etc..
June 20 2021
PAUSE ON DONATIONS TO BELGRAVE COMMUNITY HUB
Hi everyone. Thank you very much for the incredible support so far for people affected by the storms here in the hills. Recipients wanted to pass on their thanks. For the coming days we think here at the Belgrave Community Hub we have enough for the time being. If we are needing more donations in the upcoming days we will post updates. If anyone has already purchased items to bring in here, we are happy to accept them and we will get all the donations to people in need. Some houses in the hills are starting to get their electricty back. However, many still don't have electricty and we are hearing it could be as late as July 10th before others get theirs back. For questions regarding donations to other drop off points in the hills, please contact Yarra Ranges council. Their phone number for storm relief information is 1300 368 333. And their website is: https://www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Home
June 17 2021
STORM DAMAGE AFTERMATh
Thank you to everyone who has been helping with donations of food, toiletries and money for us to assist people affected by the recent storms. We have been getting reports that the power may be out for many homes for another 3 weeks. If anyone can help with donations it's much appreciated. We are also seeking generators to lend out to people. If you can help, please contact us at enquire@drers.org.au or call 9754-7777. During this aftermath period, the local council is keeping the Belgrave Community Hub open from 8am until 8pm so people can have showers or charge their phones. Donations can be left during those times. Thank you very much.
June 11 2021
WE are open
Hi everyone. We are here to help with the aftermath of the recent storm damage. We are also grateful for any donations of food, toiletries or monetary donations. The public toiletries here at the Belgrave Community Hub are open. Our 'Mi Place' drop in centre is currently closed for sit down meals. But we can offer hot take away meals. Our Emergency Relief service is open Mon-Fri 9-12:30pm - except public holidays.
May 31 2021
5 Km RULE during lockdown
Hi everyone. As our charity comes under 'Health & Community Services' , you are able to travel more than 5km from where you live to get assistance from us. For a full list of suburbs we cover, please see the front page of our website.
May 27 2021
WE WILL STILL BEOPEN DURING LOCKDOWN
Hi all. Our charity comes under 'Health & Community Services.' Therefore our emergency relief service will still be open despite the imminent lockdown in Melbourne. For the time being, the public showers here in the Belgrave Community Hub will remain open. If circumstances change, we will post an update. During the lockdown our 'Mi Place' drop in centre will only be offering take away food. Once lock down ends we hope to be able to allow sit down meals again. Our Op shop on the main street of Belgrave will be closed during the lockdown.
April 16 2021
Mi Place drop in centre has re-opened
Our Mi Place drop in centre located here in the Belgrave Community Hub has re-opened. For the time being, the drop in centre is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9-12:30pm. Patrons can enjoy a bite to eat, socialising and enjoy puzzle or board games.
March 15 2021
CLOSED THIS WEDNESDAY
Due to unforeseen circumstances, we will be closed this Wednesday March the 17th. We apologise for any inconvenience.
March 11 2021
MI PLACE DROP IN CENTRE RE-OPENING
Hi all. Excellent news! Our 'Mi Place' drop in centre is re-opening on Monday March 22nd. For the time being, the drop in centre will be open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays (except public holidays). Opening hours will be 9-12:30pm. Contact tracing details must be given upon entry. Patrons to our drop in centre can enjoy lunch, socialising with others, and jigsaw puzzles and others. We look forward to seeing you.
February 18 2021
CLOSED TOMORROW
Hi everyone. We will be closed tomorrow (Friday 19th). We apologize for any inconvenience. We will be open again on Monday the 22nd.
February 15 2021
WE ARE OPEN
Hi all. We will be open this week 9-12:30pm.
Our charity comes under 'Health & Community Services'. So if you need to use our services and live in the areas we cover, you are still able to travel here to the Belgrave Community Hub building even if you live more than 5km away.
Our 'Mi Place' drop in centre located here in the Belgrave Community Hub is still closed for the time being.
Public showers are still available here Mon, Wed, Friday from 9-12pm
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to call us on 9754-7777 or email enquire@drers.org.au For a list of areas we cover, please see the front page ofour website: https://www.drers.org.au/
February 10 2021
WE WILL MISS YOU CAROL
Our beloved friend Carol passed away yesterday. Carol volunteered tirelessly with us for over a decade and helped many people in our community. She was a great listener, full of empathy, and had a great sense of humour. Carol not only volunteered with us for many years, but also volunteered with several other organisations. DRERS was the last organisation she volunteered at and we are all grateful that we had the opportunity to spend time with such a lovely human being. We will miss having her around. Our condolences to David and family.
January 20 2021
CLOSED MONDAY AND TUESDAY NEXT WEEK
Hi everyone. We will be closed next week on Monday 25th and Tuesday 26th for the public holiday long weekend. We will be open again on Wednesday 27th 9:00-12:30pm. Sorry for any inconvenience.
January 20 2021
ONLINE RAFFLE
Hi everyone. There's still an opportunity to purchase a $2 ticket to enter our online raffle. 100% of the proceeds go to our charity. There are heaps of prizes on offer including 2 cars and a home package. Sales close Friday February 19th. Thanks for your support.
https://communitylottery.peopleschoice.com.au/collections/community-services/products/dandenong-ranges-emergency-relief-service?fbclid=IwAR2vkMaHfu2MhY2dwHL-QmMn6iHzlz5hNb-WH758CEeiY-cNApj2UnGX4xI
JANUARY 14 2021
WE ARE BACK OPEN
Hi everyone. We are back on board for another year. If you need us, we are open Monday - Friday 9- 12:30pm.
DECEMBER 18 2020
OUR CLOSURE DATES OVER CHRISTMAS
Our last day this year will be Tuesday December the 22nd. We will re-open on Thursday the14th January 2021. We apologise for any inconvenience. Please see the 2 pages linked below for a listing of other Emergency Relief services in our area. Please check with them to see if they are open.
December 18 2020
DROP IN CENTRE VOLUNTEERS WANTED
Hi all. We are seeking volunteers to help out in our 'Mi Place' drop in centre located here in the Belgrave Community Hub. Roles include basic meal preparation, as well as welcoming & chatting with patrons. Our drop in centre is open Mon-Fri 9:30-2:00pm We are looking for volunteers to help on Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays. Positions will commence February 2021. If you are able to help, we'd love to hear from you after our charity re-opens on January 14th 2021. You can email us at enquire@drers.org.au or contact us on 9754-7777.
November 18 2020
CHRISTMAS FOOD
Hi everyone. In addition to new unwrapped gifts for 0-17 year olds, we are also seeking donations of food for clients. If anyone can help donate any of the following non-perishable items it would be much appreciated:
Long life milk, non-dairy long life milk, long life custard, jelly crystals, Christmas cakes, Christmas pudding, mince pies, gravy powder, tinned vegetables, coffee, sugar, sweet biscuits, savory biscuits, shortbread, crackers, sweets & lollies, potato chips, chocolate, nuts, canned fruit, tea, pet food.
Food can be left at our reception Mon-Fri 9-12:30pm on the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub (next to the cinema). Thank you very much.
November 9 2020
CHRISTMAS APPEAL
Hi all. Our annual Christmas appeal has begun. Our Christmas giving tree can be found in the Belgrave library. We are collecting new, unwrapped presents for 0-17 years olds. For anyone who is in a position to buy a gift for a child, you can leave the present under the Christmas tree or place it in the Christmas donation box in the library foyer. There are tags on the tree with a child's age on it that people can take and go out shopping for (but it's not necessary if you aren't in the library to grab one). We will be giving away the presents on the week starting Monday December 14th, so we ask kindly that presents be donated before then. Presents can also be dropped off to where we are based which is the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub (next door to the Belgrave cinema). We are open Mon-Fri 9-12:30pm. Whilst the Christmas giving tree is predominantly set up for collecting gifts, we will also be seeking donations of food during the appeal and we'll be posting updates about food in the coming days. It's been a challenging year for so many, so we are thankful for any donations people can help with. If there's any queries, you can email enquire@drers.org.au or phone 9754-7777. Thank you very much.
October 29 2020
SEEKING OP SHOP VOLUNTEERS
Seeking Op Shop volunteers! If anyone is interested in volunteering at our Op Shop in Belgrave for either half day shifts or full day shifts we'd love to hear from you. Our Op Shop opening hours are 10-4pm each day except Tuesdays and Sundays. Please contact us at enquire@drers.org.au or call 9754-7777. Thanks very much.
October 28 2020
OUR OP SHOP IS RE-OPENING TODAY
Exciting news! Our Op Shop is re-opening as of today. We are planning to be open every day except Tuesday's & Sunday's. Initially, on the days we are open our opening hours may vary. But we are hoping to be open approximately 10-4pm. We are thankful for any donations (but please no electrical goods). The shop is located half down the main street of Belgrave. The address is 1672, Burwood Highway, Belgrave, 3160. Thank you and we look forward to seeing you.
October 28 2020
CLOSED FOR MELBOURNE CUP
We will be closed next week on Tuesday November 4th for the Melbourne Cup public holiday
October 16 2020
Closed Tuesday and Friday next week
On Tuesday the 20th we will be closed for admin purposes. And Friday the 23rd we will be closed for the Grand final eve public holiday. Sorry for any inconvenience.
October 8 2020
AGM
Our AGM is coming up in a few weeks. The exact date hasn't been set. If you would like more details, you can email us at enquire@drers.org.au
October 1 2020
ONLINE RAFFLE
Wowzers! 70 prizes worth $300,000 including cars and home packages are on offer in the People's Choice Community Lottery. It's online, so no paper or contact necessary. Tickets are $2 and if you click on the following link, our charity will receive 100% of any $2 purchased. Hope you win! https://communitylottery.peopleschoice.com.au/collections/community-services/products/dandenong-ranges-emergency-relief-service
September 23 2020
CORONA VIRUS 5 KM RULE
Our charity comes under 'Health & Community Services.' So if you need to use our services and are within our catchment area, you are still able to come to our Community Hub building even if you live more than 5km away. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to call us Mon-Fri 9 - 12:30pm, For a list of suburbs we cover, please see our website below.
September 18 2020
AFTER HOURS SERVICE
To access our services you don't need to be on centrelink. If there is anyone who is unable to contact us during our regular hours of Mon-Fri 9-12:30pm, you can contact us out of hours by email at enquire@drers.org.au or send a text message to 0468 468 430. The following business day we will view your enquiry and get back to you with a suitable consultation time for you. Please see our website for suburbs we cover.
July 9 2020
COVID-19 restrictions
Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service Inc. (DRERS) is still open. The way that we provide assistance has changed to prevent transmission of COVID-19. We are still open and here to help, but only clients who need to use the showers will be able to enter premises.
If you are eligible for assistance, we will be able to provide you with financial assistance, food vouchers, food, and other assistance from our premises, even though you will not be able to enter the building. If you do not have access to a phone or email to contact us for assistance, please wait at least 1.5 metres away from the entrance of our building (lower level door) and one of our team will speak with you.
DRERS is open between 9:00 am and 12:30 pm, Monday to Friday. If you need our assistance then please contact us by 12:00 pm by the one following ways:
- 03 9754 7777
- 0468 468 430
- email enquire@drers.org.au
- please wait 1.5 metres away from our entrance
Our drop in centre (MiPlace) is closed until further notice.
Showers are available to use Monday , Wednesday, Friday 9-12:30pm. Please bring your own towel. We will be able to provide soap and some other toiletries. Please bring ID to allow us to do contact tracing if that was required in the following days after use.
April 24 2020
THANKS RACV
Thanks to the RACV for making, and delivering these yummy, healthy meals. A great initiative during this pandemic. These meals are made by chefs, with lovely ingredients, and delivered straight to our door. They have been very well received by people who we help.
Thanks RACV!
April 24 2020
THANKS FOR THE DONATION
Many, many thanks to Rotary Club of Belgrave for their very generous donation. We are so grateful, and truly appreciate the assistance provided by their financial donation. This is helpful at any time, but more than ever in these difficult times. Have you ever thought about volunteering with Rotary? They help so many, locally and globally, and they help DRERS too!
January 30th 2020
MUSIC GIG FUNDRAISER
Hi all. Do you love music? Come on down to Sooki Lounge in Belgrave on Sunday March 1st for a music fundraiser with proceeds going to our charity. A big thanks to Sooki Lounge and all the artists for putting on this event.
January 28th 2020
OUR FOUNDERS AWARDED ORDER OF AUSTRALIA MEDAL (OAM)
Our charity's founders Frank & Meryl Watson were both awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for their service to the community of the Dandenong Ranges. Frank & Meryl started our charity 22 years ago and have dedicated their time to helping those in need. You can read more about their award in the Ranges Trader Newspaper: https://rangestrader.mailcommunity.com.au/news/2020-01-27/oams-dear-watsons/
January 13th 2020
RE-OPENING TOMORROW
Hello everyone. We hope everyone is well. Our Emergency Relief Service is open again starting Tuesday January 14th 2020. We will be open 9am-12:30pm. And from then on our opening hours will be the same as last year Mon-Fri 9:00 am - 12:30pm. Our Mi Place drop in centre will re-open Monday February 3rd 9am-2pm, and from then on Mon-Fri 9am-2pm. Our Op Shop is back open now. It's located half way down on the low side of the main street of Belgrave. Cheers.
December 19th 2019
END OF YEAR CLOSURE
Today, is the last day this year that our Emergency relief service and Mi Place drop in centre are open to the public. We will resume our Emergency relief service on Tuesday January 14th 2020. Our drop in centre will resume on Monday February 3rd 2020. We wish everyone all the best and stay safe.
Here are some contact details of other charities that may be able to help whilst we are closed over the Christmas break.
If you need help with mental health crisis support, try: SANE - ph: 1800 187 263, Beyond Blue - ph: 1300 224 636, Lifeline - ph: 13 11 14
If you help with emergency relief then try Hope on Friday in Tecoma - ph: 9754 6809, or Monbulk Care Network - ph: 9756 7800
For a more comprehensive list of available charities who help with Emergency relief and/or food assistance, please see the following link:
December 19th2019
OUR THANKS
A huge thank you to everyone who supported us this year. We rely on the generosity of the public to help us provide the service we can for people in our community who are facing hardship. Whether it was food, pet food, gifts for our Christmas appeal, items to sell at our op shop, monetary donations, or anything else that helped us, we say a huge thank you. Our Christmas project was a success again this year, thanks to all who donated. There are too many businesses, organizations and individuals to thank, so we offer you all our biggest THANK YOU. To all of the people who received gifts and/or hampers, thank you for thanking our wonderful volunteers.
Our volunteers work hard all year, and the kind words and thanks they got was really appreciated. We really appreciate the hard work, and many hours they do, to help our community.
We offer our supporters, donors, clients and volunteers our gratitude and hope each and every one of you has a merry Christmas, and a happy new year.
Yours sincerely, Team DRERS.
PS: Because we are now on our annual break, it is unlikely that we will post anything for the next few weeks.
December 19th 2019
WE WILL BE POSTING ON INSTAGRAM!
Next year, we will begin posting on Instagram! This will be in addition to our facebook page, YouTube channel, and website which we will continue posting on. If you know anyone on Instagram, please let them know they can find us under the username: ranges_emergency_relief
(https://www.instagram.com/ranges_emergency_relief ) Thank you.
December 16th 2019
OUR CLOSURE DATES OVER CHRISTMAS
The last day that we are open to the public for Emergency Relief is Thursday the 19th December 2019, and we will re-open on Tuesday the 14th of January 2020. Our Mi Place drop in centre will be open for the last time this year on Thursday December the 19th 2019. Mi Place will re-open on Monday February the 3rd 2020.
December 16th 2019
WE CAN NOW ACCEPT DONATIONS BY CARD
G'day everyone. For anyone in a position to donate, we now are able to accept donations by card at our reception! We can send you an electronic receipt via sms or email. Help us to help our community. Many Thanks!
December 9th 2019
OUR SECOND EVER NEWS VIDEO UPDATE
Hi folks. Here's our second video giving the latest news from our charity. It's from our YouTube channel that we started recently.
December 2nd 2019
WE ARE CLOSED TOMORROW
Hi all. Tomorrow (Tuesday 3rd) the Belgrave Community Hub building where we are located will be closed due to a power outage. We apologize for any inconvenience. We will be open again on Wednesday the 4th from 9 - 12:30pm.
November 29th 2019
WE'VE STARTED A YOUTUBE CHANNEL
G'day everyone. We've started a YouTube channel. Here's our first video. It's a quick introduction about us and what our latest news is.
November 15th 2019
HOPEFULLY WE'LL SEE YOU AT THE CHRISTMAS CAROLS
Belgrave South Baptist Church are once again presenting 'Carols at Convention' on Saturday 14th December at the Belgrave Heights Convention Centre.
We will be fundraising at the ‘Carols at Convention’. This year we have moved into the 21st century and will have an eftpos facility available for donations. We will, of course, still be accepting cash donations. All donations over $2.00 are tax deductible.
5:00-6:30pm includes kids activities and food
6:30-8:30pm is the time the Christmas Carols are on
We hope that you can come along!
November 14th 2019
CHRISTMAS FOOD DONATIONS
Hi everyone. Over the next 5 weeks we are seeking donations of non-perishable food for our annual Christmas appeal. If you can help out by donating it would be much appreciated. Thank you for your support.
November 14th 2019
Christmas appeal
Hi all. We’ve begun our annual Christmas appeal! We’ve put up a Christmas giving tree in Belgrave library. We are looking for donations of new presents for 0-17 year olds. Presents can be placed under the tree or given to library staff. Please donate before December the 18th as that is the day we will be giving them out to clients. Presents don’t need to be wrapped as we need to display them on tables. Presents can also be left at our reception here at the Belgrave community hub Mon-Fri 9-12:30pm. Thank you very much!
CONTACT US
email: enquire@drers.org.au
1616-1624 Burwood Highway Belgrave, Vic 3160
(03) 9754-7777 / Mob: 0468 468 430
ABN: 80 454 546 928
Incorporation Number: A0035544Y
© Copyright Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service Inc.