NRMA Insurance and RACV will together contribute $2 million to donation platform GIVIT to provide urgently needed items due to COVID lockdowns such as groceries, technology and resources for home learning.

GIVIT will run a COVID-19 Relief Program appeal for two years, serving as a ‘virtual warehouse’ where organisations can request specific items and services.

GIVIT has a proven track record of mobilising quickly and working with an extensive network of charities and community groups across the country, RACV GM Social Impact and Corporate Communications Louise Steinfort says.

“We know we can identify emerging requirements and adapt the program to ensure people get what they need, when they need it most,” she said.

NRMA and RACV have now made joint contributions to the value of $4 million to help Australian communities after partnering with Lifeline last year to fund critical tele-health suicide prevention services for communities impacted by the Black Summer bushfires and COVID.

GIVIT CEO Sarah Tennant says many families were at “breaking point” and struggling to afford essential everyday items such as food and household supplies and requests via GIVIT have almost doubled since early last year.

“Communities are dealing with the pandemic on top of ongoing challenges, including recovering from natural disasters, domestic and family violence, and economic hardship,” she said.

Visit the appeal here.