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OUR STORY
Formed by the community, for the community.
Our mission is to empower those experiencing hardship and tragedy by motivating the community to help provide in-demand emergency supplies when disaster arises. Founded by Deb Brook, BCER is a grassroots charity that was formed after the mammoth, coordinated contributions the community made during the January 2020 bushfires through our initial community group on social media.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
A simple idea on New Years Eve 2019 saw us launch a humble Facebook group on New Years Day 2020. It was incredible to see how quickly the Bayside community united and swung into action - donating hundreds of thousands of dollars in essential supplies for the January 2020 "Black Summer" bushfire crisis. It was truly humbling to work alongside selfless individuals who stepped up and provided support to those devastated by bushfires and witness the many ongoing convoys heading into dangerous, fire-ravaged regions around Victoria. With the help of our community, were able to assist not only people in need, but also wildlife shelters in distress, as animals were a major casualty of the bushfires.
After the bushfire season, our plan was to hand over the BCER model so that other localities might be inspired to build similar community-based groups. However, after encouragement from a large number of supportive voices, Bayside Community Emergency Relief became an incorporated association with full charity status. This makes it possible for us to continue to give our community, of not only Bayside residents but statewide, the chance to unite in a structured way during times of emergencies. We are proud to say that the The BCER concept has made a significant impact to our community, inspiring various groups across Australia.
We wouldn't be able to do this without the support of our fantastic community of people who are always eager to help and support us. Thank you to everyone for your amazing, continued contribution during the bushfire crisis, through covid and beyond. The on-going support and collaboration from our community is invaluable to our mission. We kindly ask that you encourage people to spread the word, so that we can increase our communities' contribution in times of emergencies even more in the future. We post donation callouts of specifically required goods on our Facebook group, hold community events and packing sessions where our incredible volunteer army make new connections while helping those in need.​
Our Vision for Our Community
We realise that so many people genuinely want to help when someone in their community is doing it tough, but often don't know how to help, what is actually needed, where their donation will go, or who they can trust to make sure their generosity reaches the right people.
That is where our vision began.
We wanted to be the person who helps people help people.
What We Do
We help people and animals in times of crisis, hardship and emergency, because when disaster strikes or circumstances suddenly change, the need for support can be immediate and overwhelming.
From families and wildlife affected by bushfires and other emergencies, to children and families fleeing domestic violence, people experiencing homelessness or financial hardship, and vulnerable members of our community, we help connect and provide aid for those in need with practical, meaningful support.
How We Work
We are an unfunded grassroots charity 100% run by committed volunteers, established by the community for the community! We empower those facing hardship and tragedy by mobilising the community and their support to provide emergency aid supplies when disasters strike.
Community Callouts
When someone needs urgent or specific support, we put the call out to our community. Through our digital networks and social media, we share the items that are most needed, giving local residents, businesses and community groups a simple and meaningful way to help.
Sorting, Packing & Preparing
Donations are brought together by our volunteers, who sort, organise and prepare them for the people they are intended to support. Where appropriate, individual items are combined into tailored care and emergency packs based on the needs of the recipients.
Direct Support & Distribution
We work with local support networks, shelters, services and relief organisations to help get donations where they are needed most.
Local Committees Involvement
We are currently part of the following local councils' community groups and emergency committees
Bayside Collective
Impact Committee
Glen Eira City
Community Support
Bayside
City Council
The Emergency Relief Agency Network (ERAN)
AskIzzy (Material Aid Distribution to Partners)
Registrations
We are registered and approved under these regulatory authorities
Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission
Volunteering
Victoria
