GIVING TO A GOOD CAUSE: Cafe Latte owner Aaron Wright makes a donation to the Australian Red Cross Orange branch as Orange Hospital Auxiliary president Tracy Wilkinson (left) and Orange Red Cross branch liaison officer Maxine Kinghorn look on. The donation was part of a new campaign by to drum up more volunteers and support for the vital service. Photo: STEVE GOSCH 0220sgredcross1
AUSTRALIAN Red Cross Orange branch has launched an ambitious campaign to attract more than 50 volunteers to help this vital service survive.
Orange Hospital Auxiliary president Tracy Wilkinson said yesterday it was vital they attracted more volunteers, or the branch faced the distinct possibility of closure.
Red Cross Orange branch liaison Maxine Kinghorn told the Central Western Daily the organisation survived with only six members.
“We thought we’d have to close because we don’t have enough members, and we don’t have anywhere to meet because we used to meet in the Red Cross Hall and that’s been sold on us,” she said.
“We only have six members and we range from 70-90 years of age, so we’re not getting any younger.”
Mrs Wilkinson said now was the perfect time for the community to get behind the Red Cross Orange branch.
“I would like to ask the Orange community to pull together and help revive the Orange branch,” she said.
“Volunteering is very rewarding, and all ages are encouraged to get involved.
“What people have to realise is that they can volunteer one day a month or as little as a couple of hours a month. Any time would be appreciated.”
She also said volunteers could work from home to avoid any physical strain.
“Helping us can be as little as knitting training bears that go to sick children in the hospital,” she said.
“Anyone who can offer assistance in any capacity would be greatly appreciated.”
The Australian Red Cross Orange branch is also calling on local businesses to offer their support.
“We’d really love lots of businesses in Orange to take one of our collection buckets and put it on the front counter,” she said.
“It doesn’t cost anything and the money goes to a wonderful cause.”
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer is encouraged to attend a special meeting on March 5 at the Community Centre at the Woolworths car park entrance.
If you’d like to volunteer but can’t make the meeting, or would like any further information, contact Mrs Wilkinson on 0429 055 778.