How a surplus goods "matchmaker" is responding to bushfires
By Matthew Schulz, journalist, Our Community
Goods matchmaker Good360 is among the many not-for-profits involved in bushfire response, aiming for a "strategic and sustainable" approach to long-term recovery that holds lessons for other community leaders.
The charity, known for its efforts in redistributing goods at Christmas, is ramping up in response to the bushfire emergency by diverting surplus stock from the country's biggest retailers into the hands of people who need it most.
Already it has redistributed personal care items and cleaning products to shelters and evacuation centres, and it plans to use its connections to distribute furniture, mattresses and other necessities as they are needed.
Good360's tactics are informed by lessons learned by Good360 US, where up to 60% of goods donated during North American disasters ended up in landfill or were wasted, and where a reduction of giving over time tended to impede long-term recovery.
That's why the Australian arm's disaster response framework aims to extend the recovery program well beyond the immediate aftermath.
That framework identifies six phases - preparedness, response, recover, rebuild, refurnish and relive - and involves partners at every phase.
Good360 managing director Alison Covington (pictured top right) said the organisation was expecting an extended assistance campaign.
"This marathon recovery effort has only just begun. Like all marathons, the first step is preparation. Good intentions can result in incredible impact, but it's important to first understand the need, give wisely and be prepared to stick it out for the long haul."
Good360's disaster reponse follows a six-phase recovery framework.
Good360 has already started surveying not-for-profits and needy schools to understand what products are urgently needed and what will be needed later. By early February, 170 organisations had outlined the goods they needed for bushfire relief.
Right now, the most-needed items include personal hygiene products, cleaning supplies, back-to-school goods, clothing and underwear, camping gear, baby products, pet supplies, tools and safety equipment.
Good360 has recorded the number of organisations that need them, when they are needed by, and how many people within the community will be affected by the supply of the items.
These survey results will inform the organisation's work in sourcing items from Australian retailers.
Ms Covington said centralised co-ordination and management of the donation process was essential.
"It ensures that the right goods are delivered to the right communities at the right time," she said.
Good360 is also encouraging community organisations to boost their own impact by signing up to become Good360 members. Membership is free.
MORE INFORMATION
Good360's disaster recovery, and how to seek help: good360.org.au/disaster-recovery/
Goods needed: good360.org.au/disaster-recovery/goods-needed-for-bushfire-relief/
Take the survey about the goods you need: www.getfeedback.com/r/aUZKKPJ2/