Victorian bushfires - ways to help

I find myself wandering aimlessly about the house today, unable to focus on anything as my mind keeps returning to reports of the horrific loss of life in the Victorian bushfires. Authorities are saying the most immediate way of helping is to contribute financially and to give blood. There is also desperate need for spare generators and fuel. Red Cross is adamant that 'items' not be donated purely because distribution is logistically difficult at this stage.

For stitchers keen to help, there are many plans afoot amongst the wonderfully generous Australian blogging community:

• Melly & Rosie of Melly & Me are auctioning many of their beautifully handcrafted samples here, the total proceeds of which will be donated to the Bushfire Appeal.
• Gillian of Silly Gilly is offering to coordinate a combined auction of handmade items on Ebay on Friday 6th March. Details here.
• Cindy of bugandpop has set up a blog called Handmade Help which will list handmade items being auctioned on Ebay or sold through Etsy for the Appeal. Click on the Handmade Help button to the right to take you there directly.
• Janet of Wildcraft Farm is selling stitchery patterns & kits, the entire proceeds of which will be donated to the CFA (Country Fire Authority. Details here.

Thank you for your kind concern for me & my family expressed in your comments. How lovely you all are! I am many hours from the fires, but the smoky haze when I go outside is a constant reminder of the suffering further south.