NRMA and RACV team up to support GIVIT's COVID-19 relief programme

NRMA Insurance and RACV have contributed $2 million in funding to GIVIT, a not-for-profit donation platform that provides urgently needed items and services to people and communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

GIVIT's COVID-19 Relief Program, now supported by NRMA Insurance and RACV, was designed to meet the immediate, tangible needs of Australian communities while reinforcing essential support networks to help communities mobilise and deal with future disasters.

The programme also features a dedicated appeal on GIVIT's online platform, which serves as a virtual warehouse where people and community organisations can request specific items and services they need.

The $2 million funding from both insurance providers will enable GIVIT to:

• Launch and run the COVID-19 Relief Program appeal for two years;
• Purchase and deliver the urgently needed items and services that affected people and community groups request;
• Promote the programme across Australia to encourage donations and fund requests; and
• Help communities build and strengthen essential support networks by onboarding more charities and community groups to the GIVIT platform, empowering them to request what they need.

Read more: NRMA doubles down on award-winning campaign: ‘Every Home Is Worth Protecting’

GIVIT CEO Sarah Tennant revealed that requests via the not-for-profit donation platform have doubled since the pandemic began, with a significant increase in requests from first-time users.

“Communities are dealing with the pandemic on top of ongoing challenges, including recovering from natural disasters, domestic and family violence, and economic hardship – as a result, we're seeing many families at breaking point, struggling to afford essential everyday items, such as food and household supplies,” Tennant said.

Ramana James, the executive general manager for safer communities at NRMA Insurance, said the insurer wants to help those impacted by the latest lockdowns get the essential things they need as quickly as possible – from groceries to technology and resources for children learning from home.

“This donation builds on our existing GIVIT partnership and pandemic response, which aims to help communities get through this crisis and recover from recent extreme weather events,” James added.

Louise Steinfort, general manager for social impact and corporate communications at RACV, added: “GIVIT has a proven track record of mobilising quickly – within hours – and they work with an extensive network of charities and community groups across the country, so we know we can identify emerging requirements and adapt the program to ensure people get what they need, when they need it most.”