BENDIGO’S Karen community is one step closer to purchasing traditional clothes to add to its collection of cultural items.
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The group doubled its funds this week after a $400 donation from member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters.
Karen community leader Ashin Moonieinda said it meant a lot to have a federal representative help them out.
“We were surprised. We’ve never seen a member of parliament come and visit us to support our group. We’re very happy,” he said.
Mr Moonieinda said the money would go toward importing items of Karen traditional dress from Burma and Thailand.
Ms Chesters said she was glad to help their fundraiser.
“I was touched by their story,” she said. “Some of them have grown up in refugee camps. They’re so grateful and honoured to live in Bendigo. It’s important for them to be able to purchase traditional costumes and have that cultural link.”
The Karen group hopes to raise $3000 to buy the traditional clothing.
Another fundraiser selling traditional food will be held at 26 Hercules Street, Long Gully on February 22, between 9.30am and 2pm.
