The Mutual Bank’s Winter Appeal 2026 has officially launched across its branches and Head Office, with donations being collected from 11 May to 19 June to support people in the community doing it tough this winter.

The appeal supports seven local charities helping individuals and families facing increased financial pressure, with The Mutual Bank’s branches and Head Office serving as collection points for donations of essential items that can make a real difference.

The Mutual Bank’s Chief Member Officer Matthew Dunnill said the annual appeal reflects the bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting local communities when they need it most.

“With the current cost of living and the recent fuel crisis, many families continue to face increased financial pressure, which is why our Winter Appeal is so important each year,” he said.

Xavier King, Manager at Dungog Shire Community Centre, said support like this has a lasting impact in regional communities.

“At Dungog Shire Community Centre, we see every day how much difference practical support and genuine care can make. The Mutual Bank’s Winter Appeal helps strengthen that work by supporting local people and families when life becomes difficult. In a rural community, these acts of generosity go a long way. They help us provide not only assistance, but also connection, dignity and hope.”

Ann Fletcher, Assistant Manager at Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services, said the appeal helps ensure local people are met with care and practical support when they need it most.

“Every day, Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services supports local families and individuals experiencing homelessness, escaping domestic and family violence, or struggling to make ends meet. The generosity shown by our community through The Mutual Bank Winter Appeal means local people doing it really tough will be met with kindness, dignity and practical support when they need it most.”

“If you would like to contribute, it’s as simple as adding one extra item to your weekly grocery shop. Every donation, big or small, helps support people in our community who need it most.”

Staff at The Mutual Bank’s Head Office are doing their part too, with donations headed by the Contact Centre team going towards Great Lakes Women’s Shelter.

Most charities are requesting:

• Tinned and long-life pantry items
• Personal hygiene products
• Warm items like gloves, beanies, jackets and blankets

Donations collected through the Winter Appeal will go to supporting:

• Dungog Shire Community Centre (Dungog Branch)
• Carries Place (East Maitland Branch)
• Soul Hub (Mayfield Branch)
• Our Circle Maitland (Maitland Branch)
• Maitland Region Community Support (Rutherford Branch)
• Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Service (Raymond Terrace Branch)
• Great Lakes Women’s Shelter (Contact Centre)

The Mutual Bank has been helping people thrive since 1888.