Sunshine Bendigo is a community-based volunteer group that provides practical support to families experiencing challenging times in the central Victoria region. The organization was established in 2016 due to the growing need in the area for families requiring a helping hand to provide for their families. As a registered charity with a DGR status, Sunshine Bendigo collects, sorts, and redistributes essential new and pre-loved baby goods and nursery equipment to families in need. All items re-homed are checked to meet current Australian Safety Standards and are in good working condition.

The concept of Sunshine Bendigo started with a desire to make a difference in the lives of others, by connecting resources in the community with those in need. The team was inspired by the African proverb that says, "It takes a village to raise a child," and they believe that the village (our community) is paramount for families to survive and flourish. By providing a way for people to donate new and pre-loved baby goods and equipment, Sunshine Bendigo is able to care for those in need by sharing resources and saving many items from ending up in landfill.

Since its inception in 2016, Sunshine Bendigo has witnessed amazing growth. They started with humble premises in Long Gully, a suburb of Bendigo, donated to them by the Uniting church. The concept was received well and supported by the local community and case workers.

In 2019, they took the bold step to expand their service potential and moved into a larger, more purposeful site to operate from, securing themselves a private rental. The team has seen an incredible expansion in this time and has been able to re-home thousands of items with a retail value in excess of $1.5m, helping many families in their time of need.

Sunshine Bendigo has gathered an amazing team of volunteers along the way, who are committed to the cause and find their own way to contribute. This opportunity creates a pathway for them to also serve their community and make a difference for those in need. The demand for their service is growing every day, and the challenges they face to sustain and grow their service often seem huge and insurmountable. However, Sunshine Bendigo is a community, and every member of their team, every volunteer, every donor, and every supporter makes up their village. 

As a non-government-funded organization, Sunshine Bendigo relies on fundraising activities and donations to cover its overheads. This year, they need to raise $40,000 to continue providing support to families in need. In the week leading up to Mother's Day, Sunshine Bendigo is hosting their inaugural 'Mothers Day Champagne High Tea' on May 6th, 2-5pm, as their first fundraiser for the year. The event includes a silent auction and raffle as additional fundraising activities. 

Sunshine Bendigo continues to do amazing work in Bendigo and surrounding communities, rehoming $1.86m worth of baby and toddler items and supporting 4,875 vulnerable families. If you are interested in supporting Sunshine Bendigo, you can contact Glenda, glenda@sunshinebendigo.org.au or 0448 356 714.

Follow Sunshine Bendigo’s journey via their Facebook Page or Instagram account