Yass Valley Property has seen first hand families in the region struggling to make ends meet each week.

“We do see a lot of people that struggle with paying rent, loss of jobs, finding a job in Yass,” property manager Loren Blundell said. “We just want to give back to the community.”

Loren and YVP owners, Andrew and Sophie Curlewis, are running a winter appeal and collecting donations of non-perishable food, house and hygiene items to donate to local charity Circle of Friends. The non-for-profit group, which advocates for those in the community affected by poverty, hardship and domestic violence, will then distribute the hampers to needy families in the Yass Valley, in time for winter.

Local businesses IGA and The Yass Pharmacy have partnered up with YVP by offering items at discounted prices. IGA gift vouchers can be purchased from YVP and the local independent supermarket will then offer a significant discount to the families who use the vouchers to buy their groceries.

“Things like toilet paper and laundry powder and feminine hygiene products are expensive, especially at this time of the year,” Loren said.

Wendy Worthy, from Circle of Friends, said every contribution counts.

“It’s such a big help, what YVP is doing is just wonderful. The smallest things add up and make a big difference to people,” she said.

Donations can be left at the YVP office at 79 Comur Street.