Tragic Bushfires in Victoria - Australia

I imagine many of you have heard of the horrific devastating fires in Victoria - Australia that have changed the lives of so many people recently.

The last I heard over 200 people had died and over 1000 homes completely burnt to the ground. It is just so hard to imagine. I am in Australia, but can't begin to understand what these people are going through. The Australian and Victorian governments have declared a National day of mourning for the 22nd February.

During so much tragedy there are also many miraculous stories of survival including those like the koala in this video Sam the Koala.

Many of the heros that risked their lives to save and help others during the fires are also victims, losing loved ones and also homes themselves. Volunteers and emergency care workers are all giving tirelessly to help those in need.

So many people from all over the world have come together and donated things from money to clothing, toys, bedding and even hobby materials to help victims that have survived get back on their feet. Many are sleeping where they can or in tents borrowed from the army.

If you would like to help out then make sure you are donating to a genuine charity as there have been a number of reports of disreputable people collecting donations for their own personal profits!

If you are able to donate please do. You could get together with a few friends and send your donations to one of the groups below. There are more, but these are the best known charities helping out at the moment that I know of. I will add more as I become aware of them.

The Australian Red Cross

The RSPCA is helping all animals affected.

The Salvation Army

St Vincent de Paul Society