By Kyra Gillespie
Following the closure of the 4Cs Crisis Relief Centre on Friday 30 November, Cardinia Shire Council has put its hand up to coordinate the 2018 Christmas hamper program.
An emergency meeting was called with community organisations last week following the decision by 4Cs to close its doors early.
In place of the 4Cs, local organisations such as the Salvation Army, The Bless Collective Food Van, PC3 Community Cook-up in Pakenham, and Dig In Café in Emerald and Emerald Community House will step up to help the community’s most vulnerable this Christmas.
“The Christmas hamper program, previously run by the 4Cs, ensures our community’s most vulnerable families are supported in the lead up to Christmas,” a council statement reads.
“People who have registered with the 4Cs to receive a Christmas hamper have been contacted by SMS or email to advise them of the arrangements to re-register for this year’s hamper program.
“If you had registered with the 4Cs for a Christmas hamper for this year, or had previously been eligible, and haven’t yet been contacted by the 4Cs advising how to re-register for this year, please contact Cardinia Shire Council.”
Registrations must be submitted by Friday 7 December to be eligible to receive a hamper.
The 4Cs has indicated its intent to reopen to clients from Tuesday 8 January 2019.
