In a powerful display of community spirit, local businesses and organisations in the City of Gosnells are joining forces to ensure no resident goes without support this festive season. With the cost-of-living crisis placing unprecedented strain on households, a coordinated effort is underway to provide essential food and supplies to those doing it tough.
Local Businesses Lead with Matched Donations
IGA Maddington has installed a dedicated Mission Australia donation bin inside its store, committing to match every single donation received from the public. Similarly, IGA Gosnells is hosting a Salvos donation bin and has also pledged to match all contributions. These initiatives effectively double the community's generosity, ensuring that every can of food or household item donated has twice the impact for a family in need.
Mosque Hosts Community-Wide Food Drive
Adding significant momentum to the cause, the Masjid Al-Rahman Mosque on Mills Road West in Gosnells is running a dedicated food drive for Mission Australia, which will continue until the end of the year. The mosque has opened its doors to the wider community, inviting donations of long-life food items and essential household supplies.
Imam Salmaan Parkar explained the simple yet profound motivation behind the initiative. "No family in our city should feel alone during difficult times," he said. "At a time when many households face real financial strain, we want to stand beside them with compassion and practical support." He referenced a teaching from the Prophet Muhammad, "the best of people are those who are most beneficial to others," as the guiding principle for the drive.
Donation bins at the mosque are accessible during daily prayer times and the Friday congregational prayer, making it convenient for worshippers and community members to contribute.
A Critical Response to Growing Need
Mission Australia area manager Robyn Fernihough emphasised the crucial timing of these community partnerships. "More West Australians are doing it tough than ever before," she stated. "The cost-of-living crisis and housing crisis means people are often having to choose between paying bills or eating. This collaboration will help us provide food assistance to those who need it most."
The collective effort has been facilitated with the support of the City of Gosnells. Mayor Terresa Lynes, who helped bring several of the partnerships together, said the community response has been inspiring. "The Season of Giving is about compassion and connection," Mayor Lynes remarked. "It’s wonderful to see so many organisations working together to make a real difference for people doing it tough. When we unite around a common purpose, the impact is extraordinary."
She extended thanks to all participating organisations and reminded residents that every contribution counts, whether it's food, funds, or simply helping to spread the word about the donation drives running now until the end of the year.
