It’s a big shout out to AWU members at Tomago Aluminium who have helped raise an astonishing two million dollars for local charities over the last 30 years.
The latest recipients of this incredible fundraising feat, include Soul Café, Carrie’s Place, Got Your back Sista and headspace Newcastle, each receiving just over $10,000.
It’s a remarkable effort and only fitting that a mental health charity, such as headspace was one of the main beneficiaries during the ongoing pandemic which has affected so many.
The funds were raised through donations by AWU members from their pay packets, and matched by Tomago Aluminium.
Representatives of the local charities gathered at Tomago for a morning tea – adhering to strict social distancing measures – to be presented with their funds.
“AWU members at Tomago Aluminium take great pride in giving back to the community by supporting worthwhile causes and through the Tomago Workplace Giving Fund we have the opportunity to make a substantial amount of money available to some very worthy causes,” Wayne said.
“This year, our goal is to encourage more members to the fund and increase our annual donation amount – we can always do better!
Headspace Newcastle’s Byron Williams said the donation “will allow us to connect with and support young people who may be struggling during this pandemic,”
Got Your Back Sista Founder and Chief Executive, Melissa Histon, said the funds would ben invaluable in helping women and children escape domestic violence and restart their lives.
Melissa said the funds donated “will be able to provide furniture and household items such as beds, white goods and linen to women who have fled a violent home and are moving into their new homes, safe from violence.”
Soul Café, a community-funded charity which provided more than 40,0000 meals to local people, was also among the local charities supported by the Fund.
Carrie’s Place Specialist Domestic Violence Program Manager, Karen McKenzie, added the donation: “will help create a functional and welcoming community space at its East Maitland headquarters, so those using it can be comfortable and we can freely utilise resources.”
Fundraising efforts from AWU members at Tomago Aluminium have helped more than 40 charities over the past 30 years, donating over two million to local charities, including $1 million to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
It was also a strong supporter of drought-stricken farmers during the Buy A Bale campaign, donating $50,000. They also raised an additional $50,000 for local Rural Fire Service brigades in the wake of the devastating 2019-20 bushfires.
