13 June 2021 – SHARE SMR Inc with the support of Attorney-General of NSW Mark Speakman, SC MP raised over $2000 at Caringbah Bunnings to fund mental health initiatives for vulnerable older citizens in Sutherland Shire and St Georges Community.
Attorney-General of NSW Mark Speakman, SC MP, with SHARE President Barbara Ward serving the public at Caringbah Bunnings BBQ SHARE Fundraiser for older citizen’s mental health.
(from left) Adrian Prakash General Manager, David Smith Board Member, Laura Baker, Rania Hyasatt, Barbara Ward President, and Komal Dayal
Early on Sunday morning, while most Sydneysiders were rugging up to stay warm, our volunteers were donning aprons and firing up the grill plate at Caringbah Bunnings in Sutherland Shire – energised by the goal to raise critical funds for essential mental health initiatives for isolated, vulnerable older citizens.
We did not have to wait long for community support to flood in – with our successful sausage sizzle smashing fundraising goals with over $2000 raised to go directly to funding programs which strengthen social and community connections for older people.
The inspiring fundraiser drew the support of notable non-profit, local and state government representatives, with Attorney-General of NSW Mark Speakman, SC MP on the volunteer team.
With over 4000 men and women participating in our exercise classes across Sydney, we have noted a widespread and substantial increase in stress, anxiety, and depression among those over 50 – particularly in the elderly population.
At SHARE, we’ve been doing all we can through free weekly support programs, live online classes and webinars, over the phone support and the list goes on – but we need help to continue reaching as many people as possible. These funds are vital for new initiatives on the horizon as we continue to respond to the impacts on COVID-19.
Importantly, this fundraiser was a reminder to all volunteers and members of the public that our elderly relatives, friends and neighbours need our support – even if it is just a chat over a cup of tea or gardening together on a Saturday morning. Social connection is a fundamental element of wellbeing.
Wewould like to extend their appreciation all those who contributed to this important cause.