Making Christmas Merry with the Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service
MotHs is once again proud to support the Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Service Inc. (DRERS) and their annual Christmas Gift Appeal. DRERS has been helping local families with dignity and care since 1998, and their Christmas program is beautifully tailored to meet the real needs of families right here in the hills.
This year, DRERS is seeking new, unwrapped gifts for children aged 0–17, with donations requested by Monday 15 December.
You can drop your gifts at:
The Christmas Giving Tree inside Belgrave Library (simply place them under the tree), or
MOTHs Toys Swap on November 30: we’ll keep these aside and pop them up to DRERS for you.
DRERS headquarters at the lower level of the Belgrave Community Hub (next to the Belgrave Cameo), open Mon–Fri, 9:00am–12:30pm.
Presents don’t need to be wrapped—they’ll be displayed on tables for families to choose from when gift distribution begins Tuesday 17 December.
From 17 December, DRERS will also be giving out Christmas food and hampers. Food donations can be dropped at their Hub office, and can also be left at the Belgrave Library if that’s easier.
If you have questions, DRERS can be contacted at enquire@drers.org.au or 9754 7777.
If you’re in our private MOTHs Facebook group, you’ll also find a pinned post listing our volunteer gift collectors for each local area.
DRERS Provides Support All Year Round
Beyond Christmas, DRERS offers vital support—including fuel vouchers, rent assistance, food aid, and emergency relief. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. Their service is local, confidential, and incredibly compassionate.
Other Ways to Give Help, Receive Help & Save Some Pennies
To support families during the festive season, we’ve created a budget-friendly food shopping guide with the most affordable grocery options around, plus information on where to find food assistance if money is tight. Truly—many of us have been there, and reaching out is okay.
You can explore more MotHs support resources here:
https://www.mumsofthehills.com.au/resources/a-helping-hand
If you’re a local business owner who can act as a drop-off point and deliver gifts to DRERS, please get in touch: contact@mumsofthehills.com.au