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The Victorian Relief Committee, was an initiative of the State
Government as a response to the Great Depression
(1929-1932).
In 1930, prominent community members were asked to organise a
state-wide appeal for cash donations and goods for distribution to
Victorians experiencing hardship. By then, unemployment levels
in Australia had reached 21% and the state was in crisis.
After a few years of community fundraising events and
initiatives, a Winter Blanket Appeal was developed in 1934,
supported by the Herald and Weekly Times. The appeal is still
in existence today, now called the Warm Up Winter Appeal.
After 75 years of successfully providing Victorians with food
and aid, The Victorian Relief Committee merged with Foodbank
Victoria to provide a strong coordinated approach towards emergency
relief in the state.
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