Update
More than $3300 was raised for two charities at a community Christmas party for Greenhills Beach residents.
More than 270 people attended the party to share the festive season spirit with neighbours and raise funds for Caringbah-based Dandelion Support Network and national organisation Fathers Without Children.
Many people also donated new and second-hand toys and clothing items in the lead-up to the event.
State Attorney-General and Cronulla MP Mark Speakman was among guests at the function at Sharkies leagues club.
Kirsten Rhodes, one of the organisers, said in advance of the function they were lucky to live where they do and wanted to “give back” by helping people less fortunate.
- The Leader was initially advised $2300 was raised.
Earlier
The community Christmas party at Greenhills Beach will be a lot different this year.
”Normally we have have a little get-together down at the pond, where you bring a picnic blanket, a bottle of wine and some nibblies,” said a resident Kirsten Rhodes.
“This year we thought, ‘we live in a beautiful place, so let’s give something back and help people who aren’t as fortunate’.”
Ms Rhodes and three neighbours came up with the idea of inviting the whole suburb, which has grown with the opening up of the Shearwater Landing estate, to a big Christmas party that would raise funds for two charities.
The event will be held at at Sharkies leagues club in December.
“Sharkies are super excited to be hosting our community event, and we are working with them on some ‘money can’t buy’ raffle items, which we are sure will be well received,” Ms Rhodes said.
One of the charities to benefit will be the Caringbah-based Dandelion Support Network, which is run by volunteers and provides practical support for vulnerable families.
Some of the proceeds will also go to the national organisation Fathers Without Children.
Cronulla MP and Attorney-General Mark Speakman will attend the party and present representatives of the charities with the proceeds.
The organisers are also hoping some of the Sharks players will drop in.
Ms Rhodes received a big response when she reached out on social media for donations of clothes and toys for needy families the function party will assist..
She asked anyone wished to make further donations, including money, to contact the charities directly.
