AN online fundraising page set up by woman from Northern Ireland to help those affected by the bush fires in Australia has so far raised more than $5,000 thanks to donations from home.
Gemma Kennedy, who is from Derrylaughan in Co Derry but now lives in Sydney, set up the Go Fund Me page earlier this month in a bid to support those left devastated by the widespread fires.
Ms Kennedy, who works as a traffic controller, had initially dropped off her own donation to teams of volunteers who were packing lorries to bring aid to those in need.
However, following this, the 25-year-old, who formerly worked at The Irish News, was inundated with messages from people in Northern Ireland also wanting to help.
As a result, Ms Kennedy set up a fundraising page in the hope of raising $500 however the total has already reached more than $5,200.
Writing on the Go Fund Me page, the Co Derry woman said: "I dropped off a donation of urgently required food & toiletries for those who have been so horribly and tragically affected by the bush fires in Australia.
"After posting about the drop off point on Instagram I received messages from people at home in Ireland asking if they could send me money so I could go and get the items that are so desperately needed and donate directly on their behalf.
"I have decided to make this page for those who wish to donate towards the purchasing of more supplies. Receipts will be posted for proof of purchase & donation. This is for those who want to help those who have been left with no access to food, water, toiletries, homes. Dig deep and help in anyway you can, no amount is too little."
Donations to Ms Kennedy's fundraising page can be made at www.gofundme.com/f/help-buy-food-amp-supplies-nsw-bush-fires-australia
