Bendigo Community Health Services and Pristine Drycleaners are aiming to make the winter months more bearable for 1000 of Bendigo’s most vulnerable people.
BCHS has revived its winter coat drive after a two-year hiatus, thanks to the dedicated support of local business Pristine Drycleaners.
Together, we’re seeking 1000 donations of quality, used winter coats to gift to those who need them most.
New owner of the High Street dry cleaning and laundry service, Rob Willis, said it was his staff who encouraged him to answer the call and take up the challenge of adding an extra 1000 items to the job list.
“They loved taking part in previous years, as it’s a way that we can show some support for our community, and do something practical and positive to give back,” Rob said. “It’s a lot of extra work, but we’ll sort it out.”
Staff member Cassie added; “We know from previous years that there will be so many people who are thankful for it.”
Coats can be dropped off at Pristine Drycleaners, Shop 1 157 – 161 High Street, or at BCHS’ main two sites at 19 Helm Street, Kangaroo Flat and 165 Hargreaves Street, Bendigo.
BCHS Executive Leader Community Partnerships and Integration Dale Hardy said once professionally cleaned at Pristine, the donated coats would be gifted to clients and their families.
“Many of our clients are bearing the brunt of devastating cost-of-living pressures.” Dale said.
“The hard reality is that many people in Bendigo will be opting not to turn heaters on this winter. And then there are those who don’t even have a roof over their heads.”
BCHS provides services to people experiencing homelessness, to parents making choices between meals and heating, and to children who may have grown out of last year’s winter clothing, with no easy replacements.
As such, BCHS and Pristine are looking for warm coats for all ages and stages of life, in good wearable condition.
The whole of Bendigo is invited to take a rummage in their cupboard and contribute to the tally of 1000 warm coats over the next six weeks.
Let’s go Bendigo!
ABOVE: Pristine staff Sharon, Jess, Cassie and Leanne with BCHS health promoter Steph (centre).
