Charity begins at Coles

Point Cook Coles store manager Ryan Bolger. Photo: Damjan Janevski

Point Cook locals are a generous lot.

The suburb’s Coles was recently named the second highest fundraising store in the state, with customers and staff donating more than $27,100 to cancer support charity Redkite through direct donations and the sale of $2 donation cards since 2013.

Redkite chief executive Monique Keighery said the Australia-wide fundraising commitment had allowed the charity to transform the level of support available to families looking after a young one with cancer.

“In Victoria alone, our partnership with Coles has ensured support for families 19,000 times, ranging from counselling at the hospital bedside and financial assistance during treatment, to scholarships for young cancer patients and survivors,” she said.

Coles state general manager Mark O’Connor added: “It’s thanks to the generosity of our customers and team members in Point Cook, we have been able to help Redkite make a real difference to families who need it most.

“Each year, we see our team members go above and beyond to raise much-need funds for Redkite through various fundraising activities like bake sales and quirky dress-ups.

“We are very grateful for the community’s ongoing support and continue to be inspired by fundraising efforts and kind donations.”