cupboards officially open

I have long been a supporter of the Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service. For near on fifteen years they have been providing relief services for those in need.


Cr Samantha Dunn cuts the ribbon to officially
open DRERS new cupboards. Also celebrating the
occasion is DRERS manager, Tania Bevan,
founder, Frank Watson and volunteers John and Bob.

Their services continue to expand with demand and DRERS find themselves playing a key role in food distribution for the vulnerable and disadvantaged in our community.

Their offices, in the old Belgrave schoolhouse, were packed to the rafters with boxes of food, making it difficult to distribute and sort. I was delighted to be able to provide a grant from my community ward fund to assist in building cupboards and shelves so DRERS could easily distribute food to needy locals.

My first official cupboard opening, it was great to be able to provide practical support to assist DRERS, they provide such an important safety net.

If you can spare some cash, food or blankets you can donate to DRERS, click here for more info.

samantha in the press - emergency relief

Service now has more in store
Mail Newspapers
by Emma Sun
30 May 2012

samantha in the press - emergency relief

Food relief comes out of box
Yarra Ranges Weekly
29 May 2012

drers need your help

Earlier this week I visited the Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service to talk about a whole range of issues. I am always inspired by the people who bring this service to disadvantaged and vulnerable people in our community. They are committed to assisting people and volunteer countless hours doing so.

Pictured left to right: Eddie - Volunteer, Tania Bevan - DRERS Manager, Cr Samantha Dunn - Lyster Ward and Bob - Volunteer in front of one of the DRERS pantry food storage areas.

DRERS are currently fundraising to purchase a van to assist with their food collections from the Victorian Food Bank. At the moment staff and volunteers are using their own vehicles but there's severe limitations due to the size of their cars and issues around insurance.

I'd urge any of you with some spare funds to contribute to DRERS. DRERS will also be fundraising as part of the Belgrave Lantern Parade, be sure to look out for them.

If you'd like to contribute send your donation to:
Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service Inc
1632 Burwood Highway
Belgrave VIC 3160

or call them on 9754 7777.