Small items, big impact

Across the NT, we’ve found it’s often the small personal items that make the most positive impact on the dignity of those in vulnerable situations, including those fleeing from domestic violence. On top of experiencing emotional trauma, financial hardship can make it extremely difficult for people to purchase basics such as underwear, toiletries, and hygiene products. These are everyday things that we take for granted – or at least we do until we have to do without them for some reason.

With the help of our NT Engagement Coordinator, Tali, GIVIT has distributed thousands of donated items across the Top End. As she explained,

“It’s so special to see the joy of mothers and their children as they select their very own pairs of new underwear - a personal necessity they would otherwise not be able to afford.”

GIVIT works with various local organisations in NT, including the Darwin-based Larrakia Nation and One Tree Safe House in Wadeye. These frontline charities do great work in aged care and in supporting those facing homelessness and domestic violence. Generous donors regularly pitch in to meet their requests, with toiletries supplied by Pinchapoo, underwear from Hanes, and linen from Darwin’s Hilton Hotel.

It’s rewarding for the GIVIT team to see everyday items making a difference to those in challenging situations. Recipients in the Larrakia Darwin facility said, “it feels like Christmas has come early” while the children of families in the Wadeye safe house loved their fun ‘onesies’. As well as meeting practical needs, we’ve found these items also provide a much-needed morale boost. On receiving new underwear, women frequently share that it’s the first time they’ve felt comfortable in years!