By ANEEKA SIMONIS
A PHILANTHROPIC foundation donated thousands of dollars to local welfare and support service groups last week.
Chairman of the Casey Cardinia Foundation Paul Thomas said almost $50,000 was distributed between several “deserving” recipients who each work hard at improving community health, happiness and accessibility.
Touched by Olivia is one step closer to constructing the first all-abilities playground in the South-East thanks to the foundation’s generous $10,000 contribution on Friday 5 December.
“The playground will create a space where everyone can play together, side by side,” said Adam Lowndes who predicted more than 63,000 kids would benefit from the inclusive play-space in Lyndhurst.
Windermere Child and Family Service also received $10,000 to helps new mums between 18-25 years of age avoid homelessness.
Four mums and five children, who are currently living on the street or in a dangerous area, are expected to benefit from the boost to the Mums and Bubs program.
“We hope to soon have a housing service as there is no government support for mums in this age range,” program representative Lynette Buoy said.
Operations Newstart Victoria received $5000 to keep up with rental payments on their Casey branch which currently works with around 50 disengaged youths.
Outlook Pakenham also received $5000 to help establish their All Together Choir, made up of 50 people from different walks of life.
Around 400 athletes will reap the rewards of the $5000 grant toward Special Olympics Australia Victoria who will be hosting the 2015 State Games in the Casey and Cardinia area.
Narre Warren SES, the main responder in the City of Casey, plans to update their communication systems with their $3500 grant.
The same amount was awarded to Living and Learning Inc in Pakenham who will boost their REACH Pathways Project for early school leavers or recent migrants and refugees.
About 550 senior citizens will benefit from a grant of $3000 toward the Cranbourne Police Senior Citizens Register which keeps a watchful eye on the elderly.
Pakenham Patchworkers and Quilters Inc, who knit or crochet quilts for people in need, also received $2000.
“We have created quilts for babes in Monash’s neo-natal unit as well as families fleeing from violent situations. This year we made quilts for residents at Millhaven Lodge,” said quilter Margaret Burridge.
The Cardinia Civic Concert Band said they planned to replace their drum kit with their $1500 share in the latest round of grants.
The Casey Cardinia Foundation has donated a total of $380,000 to local community groups since it was established 10 years ago.
