Lockdowns may have ended and restrictions eased on the Central Coast but charities continue to see an increased demand for their services and many across the region are still doing it tough dealing with the impacts of COVID-19.
Coast Hands is one such organisation that has won the October round of Greater Bank’s #GreaterCentralCoast community funding program, which this month focused on organisations providing COVID-related support across the region.
Coast Hands received $2000, while runners up, Lakes Food Care at Toukley Neighbourhood Centre and Central Coast Family Support Services, have each received $500.
Founder Micah Weekes says Coast Hands receives no support from government, which means they rely heavily on the generosity of the community to ensure they can continue to provide their services.
“We are a grassroots organisation that provides nutritious, healthy meals, food hampers, donated clothing, blankets and toiletries to the homeless every week direct to the streets,” Micah said.
“We also assist struggling families via neighbourhood centres, foodbanks and schools. It’s all free via a network of cafes, restaurants, butchers and grocers we have created, along with community support.
“Food is a basic human right, which is why we want to create a community that looks after its most vulnerable members. In one year, we supplied over 7000 meals for free!
“This wouldn’t be possible without the support of our partners and the community who provide funding support and donations of goods and food items. This contribution from Greater Bank is huge, particularly given the fact that COVID has seen more people looking for help.”
Greater Bank’s Central Coast Regional Sales Manager, Josh Swetnam, said Coast Hands is a great example of a local organisation helping it’s own community.
“The impacts of COVID on the community have been far-reaching, with many people losing their jobs and struggling to make ends meet,” Josh said.
“Coast Hands has made a massive difference to the lives of those impacted by the pandemic, and we are delighted to be able to help them help people in need.”
Josh Swetnam, Greater Bank Regional Manager
The November round of the #GreaterCentralCoast community funding program is now open, with Inlife Turning Point Foundation, Faith In Action Ministries Inc Care Arm Trust and Wyong Musical Theatre Company Inc in the running for a share in the monthly funding of $3,000.
The public can cast their vote online at greater.com.au/greatercentralcoast. Voting for the November funding round closes at 5:00pm, Wednesday, 24 November 2021.