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Helping hand for neighbour in need

 

A Melton couple is on a mission to help a woman rebuild her life after she lost all her possessions in a house fire three weeks before Christmas.

John Southall and his wife, Lynda, are calling on local businesses and residents to donate unwanted furniture and homewares to help Nicole Brown get back on track.

“We really wanted to help her because she cares for others, and it’s time someone returned the favour,” Mr Southall said.

He said it was former Melton mayor Sophie Ramsey, a close friend of Ms Brown’s, who enlisted their help.

“This woman used to look after Sophie’s daughter, and she’s been through a tough time over Christmas. She’s now living with family … and could use all the help she can get.”

Mr Southall has gathered a $5000 lounge suite, $200 in cash, mattresses and other household items to donate.

“I’ve got all this stuff sitting in the garage to deliver to her,” he said. “I think it’s important that we take care of our people.

“We send money overseas to help other people when we should first help the people right here in our own communities.

“That’s the way Aussies used to be. You’d roll up your sleeves to help your mate.

“It’s important that people know what we are trying to do here. This is what life’s all about.

“My wife and I put together about 130 food hampers over Christmas at our house to give to families that were doing it rough over the holiday season.

“We enjoy what we do because we get to see the smile on people’s face when we help them, and that’s very special.

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