MORNINGTON Community Support Centre (MCSC) has exceeded its Winter Appeal target, raising over $150,000.
Each year, MSCS holds a Winter Appeal to raise funds to help them deliver services to those who need it most.
They provide emergency relief, food, crisis accommodation, financial counselling, advocacy, and help build a sense of community.
CEO Ben Smith said they are incredibly grateful to everyone who donated.
“It was incredible to witness the community’s response to the call out,” said Smith.
“I think it certainly humbles us to know that we’ve got a community who respond when crisis hits and to do so so generously, particularly as every household is sort of struggling at the moment.”
The original target was $125,000, and Smith said with the extra funds, they will be able to expand the services that need the most attention.
“Our main demand is coming from the food space,” said Smith.
“So, people that are coming into us every single week for that food relief; maybe it’s the only food that they can afford, being free, but also it’s for people who are offsetting the costs at the checkout.”
A Winter Appeal Gala was held at Dromana Estate, with Peninsula Productions, Lana Hutchison, and Event Perfection helping create the event.
There was a number of auction items that helped raise vital funds. Smith said they are grateful for the support of local businesses, including Perkin Electrical, Mount Martha Tennis Club, Peninsula Hot Springs, Kip & Co, Alba Thermal Springs, Enchanted Adventure, Polperro Wines, Hugh Evans Gallery, and Provincial Home Living.
“I think our community knows that when we each get around each other that there’s a two-way benefit,” said Smith.
“There’s obviously the benefit that comes from the supply of the goods and the fundraising, but there’s also the benefit of knowing that there are people out there who have your back.
“We’re able to remind people that they’re not alone, that their community’s looking after them, and they’re right with them on the journey.”
Smith said over the next year, MCSC is looking to get out into the community and to places they’ve never been before.
“So, working with schools, working with workplaces, and other local community groups to ensure that we’re meeting people where they’re at, not just expecting them to know that we’re there,” said Smith.
Smith said the generosity of the community helps motivate MCSC and fills them with confidence they can continue to support those who need assistance.
First published in the Mornington News – 28 July 2026
