Seniors support charities
RESIDENTS at Carlyle Gardens are gearing up for another year of fundraising as they continue to support local charities.
With more than 450 homes, residents at the retirement village last year stepped up their fundraising efforts to support those in need.
Senior village manager Susan Dundas said residents worked hard to raise money after the Townsville floods with farmers receiving a generous donation and Oonoonba State School handed funds for new books for the library.
“This then followed throughout the entire year with many local charities benefiting from monies raised at our monthly markets, expos and events open to the public,” she said.
“Make-a-wish Foundation, Salvation Army, Cancer Council, Ronald Mcdonald House, Angel Paws, to name a few, were recipients in 2019 along with Carlyle’s recent partnering with local wonderwoman Kate from Kate’s Campaign for Change providing support in the form of toiletries and other products to local homeless shelters and the Orange Bus group.”
Residents ramped up their fundraising efforts for the Christmas period with good cheer and festive flare.
“Throughout December fundraising takes place through activities such as the 12 days of Christmas Raffle, functions, Salvation Army toy appeal, Lions Christmas cake appeal, intergenerational Christmas bonbon making with children from the Little Zebra centres and our very own lights parade,” Sue said.
“The atmosphere, the engagement and the high spirits can be felt from our restaurant, to our street side parties, to our Christmas markets.
“But what they pride themselves on most is how they care for each other, care for the wider Townsville community and their commitment to supporting those in need.
“Christmas is about the spirit in people and community care, both of which are strong at Carlyle Gardens.”
Finishing their fundraising efforts for 2019, residents rallied together to make key donations to the current fire appeals for southern states.
“We are a community within a community,” said Sue.
“The power of community spirit really is felt all year at the retirement village.”