The Aussie Spirit shines even when it rains.
This week in the land down under has been a tough one and it's going to get tougher as the waters recede and still towns are being flooded and people are losing everything. It's hard to imagine this type of event but the images being show all over the world give you a clue as to how destructive flood waters can be. As we wait to see who will be next in the devastating natural disaster the Aussie spirit is not dampened and people are pitching in to help prepare for the coming water as well as getting in there to help when the water goes.
The clean up after something like this won't take weeks, it'll take years. There are plenty of ways you can help here a just a few -
RWA Flooded Communities Book Appeal
We've all seen the devastation the recent Queensland floods have wrought and have wondered how we can help. We know that for many affected families, books will not be high on their priorities list for some time to come.
But…
We also know how valuable books can be in providing time out when reality gets tough.
So…
With the aid of some wonderful volunteers, we've put together a Romance Writers of Australia Flooded Communities Book Appeal.
What we need?
FICTION BOOKS! Romance books, children's books, young adult books, genre books, whatever – either new or in sparkling condition.
Please send them to:
RWA Flooded Communities Book Appeal
PO Box 1717
Noosaville Post Office
Noosaville BC
Queensland 4566
When to send them?
Now! And any time over the next few months. The books will be boxed and delivered to the appropriate libraries/schools/neighbourhood centres/community centres in batches as soon as the communities are ready to receive them. We'll be liaising with councils, libraries and schools to ensure this is done appropriately. Feel free to pop a note inside, or if you're an author, sign it.
Questions:
If you have a question about donations, email Jess Anastasi: Jess@jessanastasi.com
If you work in a library / council / community centre / school in a flood affected area, email Rachel Bailey: rachel@rachelbailey.com.au
Or if you're able to donate some money to the flood relief fund you can find out how here - http://www.qld.gov.au/floods/donate.html
Plus if you live in or around the area there are numerous way you can lend a helping hand, even if it's just to go lend a shoulder for someone to lean on. You can find info on how here - http://www.qld.gov.au/floods/volunteer.html
Any and all help will be much appreciated.
Rhian
Edited to add:- Linda just brought up a good point in her comment. Please, if you know of anyone able to help, forward this information on to them. Thank you.
