Uniting Church Tasmanian Bushfire Disaster Appeal

The Moderator of the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, Isabel Thomas Dobson, has urged Uniting Church people to support the Tasmanian Bushfire Disaster Appeal.

The Synod of Victoria and Tasmania is responding to the bushfires which have been burning through many parts of Tasmania in the early days of 2013 and continue to be of serious concern.

More than 250 properties have been affected and $40 million of insurance claims have already been lodged.

Ms Thomas Dobson said, “I urge all members of the Uniting Church and supporters of UnitingCare to respond in a spirit of generosity that comes from the love of God for all people. Please donate as best you can and add to your gift, prayers for the people affected by the Tasmanian bushfires.”

The Uniting Church Tasmanian Bushfire Disaster Appeal is being coordinated by SHARE, the appeals unit of the Synod’s Commission for Mission.

The Tasmanian State Government’s emergency disaster plan allocates roles to various community service providers with the Red Cross acting as the lead agency for the collection and dispersal of emergency funds.

Funds from the Uniting Church appeal will be directed to Red Cross Australia but anybody who wishes to support bushfire response ministries within Tasmania can direct their funds for this purpose.

UnitingCare Tasmania director Lindy O’Neill said that the effect of the fires had been devastating. “Many people have lost everything — their houses, clothes, cars and pets — and need financial and material aid,” she said. “They also need understanding, empathy and emotional support to help them overcome this absolute tragedy.”

One hundred per cent of donations will be forwarded to the disaster relief effort.

Donations over $2 made to the Tasmania Bushfire Appeal will be tax deductible and receipted by the Uniting Church Synod of Victoria and Tasmania.

People wishing to make a donation to the Tasmanian Bushfire Disaster Appeal can send donations to:

Uniting Church Tasmanian Bushfire Appeal
PO Box 24154
Melbourne VIC 3001

Alternatively, you can:

• Ring this toll free number – 1800 668 426
• Donate online
• Download this personal Donation Flyer
• Download this donation form for congregations.