Bankstown Sports Gives $100,000 To Youth

Bankstown Sports Club has donated $100,000 to Father Chris Riley's Youth off the Streets program in an end of year Christmas gesture which will directly benefit local young people. The substantial donation was made as part of Bankstown Sports' strong ties to Clubs NSW – a demonstrable supporter of communities all over the State – and a regular supporter of Youth Off The Streets.

The cheque was presented to Father Riley at the charity's annual Presentation Night held at Bankstown Sports Club on Friday November 26.

Father Riley, his staff and supporters recognise every young person in their services at this special evening. Each young person receives an award, presented to them by broadcaster Alan Jones, for a particular achievement they accomplished during the year.

The club provides the venue and catering for the event free of charge.

Club President John Murray, who presented the cheque to Father Riley, said, "The club is a vital member of this community and is proud to support such worthwhile and effective causes – the results of which we see every day in all over Western Sydney and beyond."

The majority of the donation will be used to assist Youth Off The Streets' South Western Sydney Outreach programs, which target disadvantaged 12 to 21-year-olds in the area.

Father Riley said, "Through Outreach, our youth workers meet young people in their own environment by providing accessible BBQ's, games and activities initially. As trust and acceptance grows, we tailor our services to meet the specific needs of young people in the area. Services such as mentoring and youth work traineeships are provided.

"We are very grateful for Bankstown Sports Club's longstanding support and for providing the venue every year so that we may recognise our young people in a formal setting. Each young person dresses up – it is a really big night for them. For many of them, it is the first time they have been recognised for anything."