A drought relief organisation aiming to ensure local businesses aren't disadvantaged when goods are donated to people in need has invited Cootamundra charities to register and get vouchers to buy goods in town.
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The national online not-for-profit organisation, branded "Givit", has been a partner with the NSW government for the past 10 years to provide drought relief.
Givit recently celebrated its one-millionth donation for drought relief.
"We give vouchers to local charities so they can buy items from businesses in their area," said Givit Manager Scott Barrett during a recent visit to Cootamundra.
"It's very well meaning when city-based charities take donated stuff to local communities, but it can be quite damaging to local shops who are missing out on business because of the downturn in economic activity," he said.
"Droughts - and floods for that matter - have a knock-on effect on most people in country towns.
"It's not just about food, but all the things people can't afford at such times, such as clothing, stationery and rural merchandise.
"It's a way of getting the right things to the right people in the right way.
"We don't know who's doing it tough here, but Cootamundra charities do.
"We can give the charities vouchers they can spend on clothing, hardware, groceries or anything else their clients need."
As an example, Givit has given $5,000 worth of Target vouchers to the CWA.
Mr Barrett has urged Cootamundra charities to register at www.givit.org.au, where cash donations can also be made.