Pay it forward at shops in new scheme

PEOPLE in need of a cheerful cup of coffee, a meal or even a bag of feed can be part of a new gifting system where locals buy each other something in advance.

SUPPORT: Carina Dittmann, Tanya Sanders and Susan Anderson with Glenda Riley. Picture: Matthew Purcell

PEOPLE in need of a cheerful cup of coffee, a meal or even a bag of feed for their animals can be part of a new gifting system where locals buy each other something in advance.

People can choose an amount to put on the Community for Community cards, which are advertised at participating businesses.

"It doesn't have to be much; the cost of a coffee, a bag of feed, a meal, it doesn't matter,” Granite Belt Drought Assist's Glenda Riley said.

Participating businesses will give the purchased card value as an item (for example a coffee) to those who ask, or to someone they know needs a boost.

"Recipients will be reminded that we are community, and that we do care, regardless of where we live,” Ms Riley said.

Lilly's Cafe on High St is the first local business to take part in the Community for Community "We'll be right, mate” campaign.

"Stanthorpe is so community-focused and there are people out there who need a helping hand,” Lilly's Cafe staff member Susan Anderson said.

"It's not just about keeping a roof over their head, it's about keeping their sanity - being able to enjoy a coffee like everybody else does.”

Contact GBDA to get involved, phone [phone], email granitebeltdroughtassist @gmail.com or keep an eye out for Community for Community Card signs in local businesses.

The first print card run was funded by sponsor Crisps Coaches.