Friday August 23 2024
Member for Manly, James Griffin has praised the local community for its continuing enthusiastic support of Manly’s Adolescent and Young Adult Hospice, also known as the AYAH.
The Hospice, which opened last year on the former Manly Hospital site, is Australia’s first to provide a dedicated facility for young adults with a life limiting illness.
Mr Griffin said the AYAH has been in desperate need of a bus to transport clients to and from appointments and recreational activities.
“The community, especially through the generosity of the Rotary Club of Manly and the Community Bank Freshwater has been fantastic,” Mr Griffin said.
“Each community organisation has donated a staggering $50,000 towards the purchase of an accessible minibus to meet the AYAH’s transport needs.”
Community Bank Freshwater Director, Julie Rigoni said the Board totally supported the fundraiser, adding it was a privilege to be involved.
“The bus is an amazing facility and will be lifechanging for both the AYAH clients and their families.”
The Rotary Club of Manly President, Ken Farrow said the Club is proud to have contributed to the bus purchase from funds raised through its extensive volunteer program.
“This bus will make a truly meaningful impact in our area,” Mr Farrow said.
The AYAH’s Community Partnerships Manager, Laura Grant said access to an accessible vehicle will help strengthen connections between the AYAH patients and the broader community.
“Anyone who wants to contribute further towards ongoing running costs, can do so by visiting north-foundation.raisely.com/ayah-community... .”
The new bus has been unveiled during a celebration fundraiser at Pilu’s Sardinian Restaurant in Freshwater.
Mrs Grant said the evening was made possible through the overwhelming support from Pilu at Freshwater, The Boathouse Group, BAU Group Construction, the Rotary Club of Warringah, Duan & Only, MC Jaynie Seal, Auctioneer Karl Delaney, DPS Print and Sightline Productions.
“Additionally, over $30,000 worth of auction items were donated by over 40 very generous local businesses and organisations.
Mrs Grant said, “To help the community understand the importance of the AYAH, the Rotary Club of Warringah has sponsored the production of two patient video stories.
“These stories will help carry the legacy of the individuals featured, while supporting families who utilise the AYAH for years to come.”
Mr Griffin said the community support for the AYAH bus and the fund-raising evening has been fantastic.
“In particular, donations to the auction will greatly assist in the ongoing delivery of the AYAH’s highly valued services.
Mr Griffin said, “A big thanks goes to all those who helped make the bus purchase and the fund-raising evening so successful.”
Photos supplied