KSS eKourier January Edition 2025

CHARITY

CAN I PLEASE HAVE A BANANA AND A HUG?

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integrating housing with early education and support to address these issues before they escalate. We know every $1 donated saves $3.40. The Kennards Freedom Fighters fully embraced the evening, donning space cowboy attire and engaging in lively banter with other corporate groups as we set up our shelters. Fortunately, we all stayed dry, not from our shelter- building skills, but because it thankfully didn’t rain. It seems we might be better off sticking to our day jobs of renting space instead of constructing it! The night wasn’t just about fun and games; it was filled with moving stories and a musician who led us in a team building rendition of 'We'll Go Riding on the Horse,' which really brought everyone together. We wrapped up the event by toasting Marshmallows by the open fire, where Darryl discovered his newfound love for S’mores. Special shout-outs to the team! Darryl Hodgson (THQ), Deepa Chirayath (THQ), Tony Vuong (THQ), Jared Mobbs (THQ), Javier Perez (THQ), Debbie Stansby (CCC), Anthony Heng (KSS Thornleigh) , Brianna Burns (KSS Waterloo). Fiona Harding Head of Business Development & Partnerships ‘ Reflecting on the event, I am filled with immense pride. From my first involvement nine years ago, when we raised less than $150,000, to this year, targeting over $1.3 million, the growth is undeniable.

L to R: Debbie Stansby (CCC), Fiona Harding (THQ), Tony Vuong (THQ), Deepa Chirayath (THQ), Jared Mobbs (THQ), Javier Perez (THQ), Anthony Heng (KSS Thornleigh)

T his year’s Sleep Under the Stars event at Barangaroo in Sydney was a profound reminder of the impact we can have on young lives. The night was filled with warmth, camara - derie and heartwarming stories, but one in particular stood out. A story shared by a former resident of Stepping Stone House (SSH). Her journey began at the age of 15 when she entered the house as a nervous and scared young girl. A dedicated carer who supported her through those early days recounted that moment when she first arrived. As she stepped into her new home, overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty, she asked two simple yet heartfelt questions: “Could I please have a banana?” And “Could I have a hug?” Before bursting into tears. It was a raw moment, that captured the essence of vulnerability and the need for care that many young people experience, highlighting not only the challenges faced by young people in crisis but also the transformative power of compassion and trust. The simple requests for a banana and a hug symbolise the basic human need for comfort and nourishment, both physically and emotionally.

Fast forward to today, she now has her own rental apartment and employ - ment. She took the time during the event to thank everyone for their unwavering support. Expressing how vital the care she received at SSH was to her journey, helping her to grow into the independent young woman she is today. Reflecting on the event, I am filled with immense pride. From my first involve - ment nine years ago, when we raised less than $150,000, to this year, targeting over $1.3 million, the growth is undeniable. This year's KSS Freedom Fighters Team was the largest we had seen in a long time. Our fundraising efforts are a testament to the commit- ment of KSS. Each year, the momentum grows, and SSH continues to make signifi - cant strides in addressing fundamental challenges faced by young people. As we left the event on Saturday morning, my heart was full, reassured by the visible impact of our collective efforts. It is often suggested that a Primary School Principal can identify which children might face challenges such as welfare dependence or homeless - ness by the age of six. It highlights the necessity for a holistic approach to

21 Kennards Kourier Jan 2025