Local artist Emma Blyth and the wider WA community have come together to raise over $10,000 for Mandurah families doing it tough.
The funds were raised through a raffle over the Crab Fest weekend, with the winner to take home a framed canvas painted by Ms Blyth.
All the proceeds ($10,190) have been donated to Bridge Builders Inc.’s Backpack Buddies program.
The additional funds will provide 509 extra backpacks of food to children experiencing food insecurity in the Mandurah and Bindjareb region.
CEO of Bridge Builders Kelly Hinder congratulated local Toni Gordon on winning the stunning artwork.
“This is what community looks like,” Ms Hinder said.
“From a single idea at Crab Fest to thousands of meals for local children, we are absolutely blown away. This is real impact for kids right here in
Mandurah.”
Artist Emma Blyth said she was deeply moved by the community’s response to the fundraiser.
“I’ve always believed in the power of community and using what we have to give back,” Ms Blyth said.
“To see so many people get behind this and know it’s helping local kids right here in Mandurah is incredibly special. I’m just so grateful to everyone who supported it.”
Mayor Amber Kearns, artwork winner Toni Gordon and Bridge Builders junior board and staff. PIC: Supplied
The result comes at a time when the need for support is rapidly increasing.
With ongoing cost-of-living pressures, rising housing stress, and now increasing fuel costs, more families than ever are struggling to put food on the table.
“Right now, 1 in 3 households are facing food insecurity in a country that has more than enough food,” Ms Hinder said.
“These are families in our own community, and the pressure is only growing.
"Despite this, there is no dedicated government funding for services like ours, leaving organisations to rely heavily on community support.
“We can’t do this alone."
To continue the momentum, Bridge Builders is preparing for its next major fundraiser, the Boot Scootin’ Bingo Night at the Dudley Park Bowling Club on Saturday, May 30.
The organisation is calling on local businesses, sponsors, and donors to get involved and help expand support for children and families doing it tough.
“Every backpack, every meal, every act of generosity makes a difference,” Ms Hinder said.
“Together, we can ensure no child in our community goes hungry.”
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