A CENTRAL Victorian women's refuge will be able to provide more therapeutic services to women and children rebuilding their lives after family violence, following an outpouring of support.
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A fundraiser for Annie North raised $111,650 in the midst of the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Simone Edgley and Nicole Emmerson had planned to host a cocktail event at Fortuna Villa.
But the pandemic called for a change of plan. Determined to continue their support for Annie North, the sisters arranged two raffles.
The raffles resulted in donations totalling more than $50,000. An anonymous donor matched the donations, pitching in a further $56,000.
"We never, ever thought we would raise as much as we have," Ms Edgley said.
The original fundraising goal was $30,000.
"It just goes to show how many people think Annie North is such a fantastic organisation," Ms Edgley said.
She was astounded by the community's support. Ms Edgley said sponsors stayed on board, even after the event had to be cancelled.
Donors for what was supposed to be an auction maintained support for the raffles, even though Ms Edgley said many had been heavily affected by COVID-19 restrictions.
People had even made direct donations, instead of participating in the raffle.
"We're absolutely stoked, especially this year because of how everything is," Ms Edgley said.
The raffles were drawn on Sunday, and the fundraising total was confirmed today.
Annie North chief executive Julie Oberin said Ms Edgley and Ms Emmerson should be commended, especially given the challenges posed by the pandemic.
"The community had been incredible, too," Ms Oberin said.
She said the money would support the therapeutic services Annie North provided women and children.
"You can see the change in women and children when they get those services," Ms Oberin said.
Annie North had been seeking funding to support the team's work for quite some time.
"This will enable us to build on the really great work we've been doing - it will just enable us to do more of it," Ms Oberin said.
The donations would also enable Annie North to buy more equipment to support therapeutic services.
"It's just an incredible amount... I can't tell you how much we are excited about it," Ms Oberin said.
If you or someone you know needs support, call:
- Safe Steps - 1800 015 188 (24-hour)
- Centre for Non-Violence - 1800 884 292
- Men's Referral Service - 1300 766 491
- 1800 RESPECT - 1800 737 732 (24-hour)
In an emergency, phone 000.
Emma D'Agostino
Covering general news and Bendigo council.
Covering general news and Bendigo council.
