By JESSE GRAHAM
AN ANONYMOUS generous donor has provided Lilydale charity Holy Fools with a van, to replace the one that was robbed earlier this year.
CEO Neal Taylor said the organisation had received “enormous” support from the community after the charity’s Swansea Road office was broken into in March, with the charity’s van stolen and later found damaged beyond repair.
But the ultimate support came down from an anonymous donor, who got in contact to help the charity get back onto their feet – or wheels.
“The lady had donated previously to us and knew the situation we were in,” Mr Taylor said.
“And she knew that we were looking to raise a few more dollars than the payout for our insurance, because the quality of vans around that price wasn’t very high.
“She said she’d rather we use our money for looking after people and doing what we do best, and that she’d cover the cost of the van.”
As for the other items taken in the robbery, Mr Taylor said Holy Fools’ stocks of food had been replenished by an outpouring of support after the theft.
“We’re just really thankful for the support of the community and for everyone who has looked out for the van and been supportive in donating either cash or goods and services,” he said.
“The community response has been fantastic.”
Sadly, only one of the group’s 11 backpack beds remain, and Mr Taylor said the organisation was hoping to get them replaced, as they weren’t covered by insurance.
But he said the group was moving on to bigger and better projects, starting up a new Street Angels’ barbecue Outreach in Yarra Junction on Thursday 11 June.
Mr Taylor said the outreach featured a free sausage sizzle, which would take place weekly from noon near the skate park area in the central part of town.
For more information, or to donate to Holy Fools, call 1300 133 889 or visit www.holyfools.org.au.
