Having a baby is exciting and stressful, and any unexpected news can be especially traumatic, so Greater Bank is proud to be able to lend our support to an organisation that helps families through this difficult time.
Celebrate T21, which advocates, supports and empowers families with a prenatal or postnatal diagnosis of Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), has won the September round of the #GreaterIllawarra Community Funding Program, receiving $2000.
Celebrate T21 founder Stephanie Rodden says the grant is a welcome boost to the group’s advocacy activities.
“The funding will help us reach our goal of providing all families with a new diagnosis of Down syndrome in Australia with our very special gift pack, which welcomes them into the Celebrate T21 community and connects them with support networks,” Stephanie said.
“The packs include a gorgeous photo book that we produce each year celebrating people with Trisomy T21 with heartfelt quotes from their families.
“With funding, these books are also distributed to hospitals, doctors’ surgeries and schools, among others, to educate and cease the deficit discourse that is derived from outdated views of Trisomy 21, to assist in fostering an inclusive community.
“We dream of a world where no family should feel isolated, unsupported or pressured to terminate based on a diagnosis of Down syndrome.”
Celebrate T21 founder Stephanie Rodden
Berkeley Eagles Junior Rugby League Club and South Coast Writers Centre have each received $500 as the runners-up for the month.
Greater Bank’s Illawarra Regional Sales Manager, Greg Creagan, congratulated Celebrate T21 on its success.
“Celebrate T21 helps people dealing with a very challenging situation and is working to change community perceptions of Down syndrome, which makes them a worthy recipient of #GreaterIllawarra Community Funding,” Greg said.
“Looking ahead, the October round of the #GreaterIllawarra Community Funding Program will focus on organisations that have played a vital role in supporting those most in need during the difficult COVID lockdowns.
“It’s a way we can say ‘thank you’ for the incredible work they have been doing and provide some financial support that will allow them to continue to help their community.”
Wollongong Emergency Family Housing, Need a Feed Australia and Orange Sky Laundry - 'Daisy' Van (Wollongong) are the nominees for the October round.
The public can cast their vote online at www.greater.com.au/greaterillawarra. Voting for the October funding round closes at 5:00pm, Wednesday, 27 October 2021.