Community
5 July, 2024
Appeal success
THANKS to the generosity of local donors, the Crystal Lee Foundation’s ‘$100 Club’ appeal has reached – and exceeded – its $5,000 goal.
The appeal, launched in March this year, set about raising money to ensure it can continue to offer a free bereavement service for families and others who have lost a loved one.
The Warrnambool-based organisation sent a call out for donations in order to help keep its bereavement counsellor, Michael Turner-Downes, on the road for the next 12 months.
Foundation executive officer Julienne Clifford confirmed this week the appeal had raised $5,400; ensuring the mobile service can continue.
“We are absolutely thrilled with the support the appeal received and extend our gratitude to everyone who donated,” Ms Clifford said.
“This ensures that our bereavement services can continue to reach families and others in need.
“Our foundation doesn’t receive any government funding so we are very appreciative of all donations.”
The foundation estimated it would cost around $5,000 this year to keep Mr Turner-Downes on the road, offering face-to-face counselling across the south west.
“Our free service is available to anyone who has lost someone, regardless of age or circumstance,” Mr Turner-Downes said.
“We all handle bereavement differently; everyone is on their own journey and there is no time limit on that.
“We cover five local government areas and I spend three days a week chatting with people and offering a listening ear when needed.
“It’s a huge step for people just to say they are hurting, they need support and that they no longer want to feel like this all the time.”
While the appeal has ensured the service can continue this year, the foundation is now searching for some office space to call ‘home.’
“It would be nice if we could have a permanent, warm, private space where people could come and utilise our services,” Ms Clifford said.
“However, because we rely on donations and don’t receive any government funding that space would need to be available at a low cost to the foundation.”
