Mingara’s annual Christmas Under the Stars event has raised more than $22,000 in 2019 with the help of Greater Bank as major partner, to be shared across two local charities that assist disadvantaged young people on the Central Coast.
The Salvation Army Oasis Youth Centre and Books in Homes will each receive $11,000 from funds generated through ticket sales and the purchase of candles at the event, to ensure the services and programs they offer continue to reach homeless and disadvantaged young people in our community.
Mingara Sports and Community Manager, Sarah Ferman, is thrilled with the funds generated from the event, which has grown into an iconic community night out for families of all ages across the coast.
“Both the Salvation Army Oasis Youth Centre and Books in Homes are two charities that fill a significant gap for vulnerable youth in our community," Ms Ferman said.
“This financial contribution will help the Salvation Army continue its work through the Oasis Youth Centre in Wyong to combat youth homelessness on the Central Coast for those who find themselves temporarily or permanently without shelter.
“Whilst Books in Homes will be able to provide more books-of-choice to children living in remote, disadvantaged and low socio-economic circumstances, to ensure crucial early literacy engagement and the development of reading skills needed for lifelong achievement.”
Greater Bank has been the major sponsor of the event for the past seven years as part of its connection to the Central Coast and mission to support the communities that support its operation.
Greater Bank’s Entrance Branch Manager, Vicki McBeath, highlighted the delight shared in being a part of such an iconic event coupled with the financial contribution it has resulted in for two extremely worthy charities.
"At Greater Bank, giving back to the communities we call home is a big part of who we are. It’s something we have stayed true to for 50 years now on the Central Coast." - Vicki McBeath, Branch Manager - The Entrance.
“Being a community bank, we don't have shareholders, we have customers, and this means we reinvest our profits to support organisations, events and programs that our customers care about.
“We look forward to seeing both the Salvation Army Oasis Youth Centre and Books in Homes put the funds raised to good use to provide much needed support to young people in our community who face challenging issues that are way beyond their years.”