Community effort raises $19,000

Raising a total of $19,000, it was individuals’ efforts that made the day as successful as it was. A sea of denim took over Gilgandra on Friday, August 5, as community members rallied together to raise much needed funds for the Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI).

Now in its 21st year in Gilgandra, organiser Jenny Johnston was blown away with the generosity and support community members gave.

“The donations given on the day were just so generous, the support shown has been overwhelming,” she said.

“To everyone that bought our merchandise and chocolates, cooked for our stall, donated goods, bought raffle tickets – thank you.”

The plaza in Miller Street was buzzing, with locals making sure to stop by, as well as visitors curious to know the fuss. While the scones, cakes, blankets, and beanies proved popular, it was the quiet achievers that made the overall total so grand.

Over $4500 was raised by the recycling of cans and bottles from shire events and personal donations. Ms Johnston and her team sifted through tonnes of recycling, and over four months of effort paid off.

Over $1000 was raised by Aussie Kindies, who took to Facebook promoting the incredible cause. “We

smashed our initial goal of $200 easy!” said one Aussie Kindies teacher. The other $12,500 was raised purely through individual donations, purchasing of raffle tickets, chocolates, and merchandise. Just another attest to Gilgandra’s community spirit and support.

“It couldn’t have happened without the support of our local businesses and sponsors, Royal Hotel, Gilgandra Services Club, and IGA,” said Ms Johnston.

“And the schools who go above and beyond every year, raising so much money to help better the lives of other children living with genetic diseases.”

Mrs Johnston is grateful for everyone’s support, and in return wants to remind Gilgandra of where this money will be going.

“This money will enable the scientists at CMRI to continue their vital work to find new treatments and cures, giving children better outcome.”

One in 20 children face a birth defect or genetic dis- ease, like cancer, cystic fibrosis, and life-threatening metabolic disorders. That’s 12 kids born every minute worldwide, and all the money on Jeans 4 Genes Day, goes to the team at the CMRI.

“Everyone has been affected by cancer, or another disease in some way or another. People understand the cause, and people want to support it. I really am just so overwhelmed and so grateful for all of the support,” said Ms Johnston.

A total of $98,000 has been raised by the Gilgandra community in the 21 years Jeans 4 Genes Day has been running in the shire.