Sports Club Helps Those At Risk In Community

Bankstown Sports on behalf of Baulkham Hills Sports Club has given a massive boost to disadvantaged families and young people living in the rapidly expanding Hills Shire Local Government area.

Community Foundation of North Western Sydney Secretary Bill Dixon says 22 percent of people living in the city's fastest growing area need financial assistance. Mr Dixon says a $60,000 donation made by Bankstown Sports on behalf of Baulkham Hills Sports will significantly enhance the foundation's ability to reach out to these people in need.

Bankstown Sports' President John Murray presented the cheque to the foundation at Baulkham Hills Sports Club on Wednesday August 4. In attendance were a number of the foundation's directors, dignitaries from both clubs and Federal Members of Parliament.

"Generally speaking, people think of the Hills Shire as an affluent area so one may be surprised to learn that 22 percent of residents need assistance," Mr Dixon says.

"This funding will go a long way to help the disadvantaged in the Hills Shire."

The foundation will use the $60,000 to set up a new initiative called 'Bridging the Gap' that will assist local disadvantaged families and young people.

The scheme will provide support to families facing financial hardship and allow the foundation's internet cafe to remain open. The foundation set up the cafe in Lalor Park to give isolated youths and seniors a place to connect.

The scheme will also allow youth, who otherwise couldn't afford sporting equipment or registration fees, the chance to join a sports club or team.

Bankstown Sports Club and Baulkham Hills Sports play a valuable role in the local community through partnering with organisations like the Community Foundation of North Western Sydney and providing financial support worth millions of dollars every year.

Bankstown Sports' President John Murray says: "We appreciate the different needs of people in the community and we place great importance on ensuring families and youth in need are given a fair go. It's also great to know this will money will allow young people the opportunity to get involved in sport and recreation."

Media Contact: Sue Nelson, Quick Thinking Communications, 0403 343 275, 02 9939 3555, sue@qtcommunications.com or Gifford Lee 0406 757 256.