It has been a tough year for charitable and not-for-profit organisations due to the coronavirus pandemic, including Port Stephens Legacy Group which relies heavily on the fundraising activities of its volunteer members.
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Fortunately for the hundreds of Legacy recipients in the Port, the funds raised in 2020 remained at a respectful level.
At an appreciation luncheon held at Nelson Bay Bowling Club on November 20, Port Stephens Legacy chairman was presented with a cheque for $20,000 courtesy of the combined efforts by the Port Stephens and Tilligerry Torchbearers. In 2019 that figure was $30,800.
"Of that total sum, $18,000 came from the Port Stephens Legatees raised through their fortnightly markets at Nelson Bay. Due to COVID, there were no raffles, no band concert proceeds and no Bunnings barbecues," said Mr Jacka.
"So we are forever grateful to the local community for their regular attendance at the markets." The remaining $2000 was raised by the Lemon Tree Passage Torchbearers.
Mr Jacka said that the proceeds would be used to support war widows in the Port Stephens area.
"We still have a few World War II widows and we are seeing a growing number of young widows with young children," he said.
"Often it can be more expensive looking after these families ... helping with the children's schooling, assisting with the purchase of school uniforms, books and computers."
Despite the challenges, Mr Jacka said that Lagacy would continue to play an important role in the Port Stephens Defence community and that Legatees would continue to work tirelessly.
"Our numbers do fluctuate and many and because we are only a small group of volunteers, we are always looking for new members and people who want to give back to the community."
