Legacy fundraising efforts go online

ESTABLISHED in 1926, the Ballarat branch of Legacy strives to provide financial and social support to thousands of veterans’ families for almost a century.

Delivering on the promise diggers made to each other in the First World War, the association currently looks after 540 veterans’ families and provides services like day trips, educational support and holiday camps.

The wider Ballarat community will have the opportunity to support their local Legacy Club during Legacy Week which will begin Sunday, 30 August to Saturday, 5 September.

Local appeal chairman Legatee Ron Fleming said although the plans they had in place had to be cancelled, they will still need to fundraise.

“As a part of Legacy week, we would normally have Legatee’s and our helpers in various areas around Ballarat and the regional area selling the Legacy badges and a range of smaller military bears,” he said.

“Unfortunately, there will be no events and face-to-face selling of Legacy merchandise this year has been cancelled.”

“Instead the community is encouraged to donate via a national portal on our website set up by Legacy Australia.

Nationally, Legacy cares for 52,000 veterans’ families, widows and veterans’ dependents with a disability.

Mr Fleming said their branch looks after families not just from within Ballarat but from postcodes all over the region including Bacchus Marsh and St Arnaud.

“A part of the donation process is people will add their postcode and the money will come back to clubs as per the postcodes that fall within their boundaries,” he said.

“Although Legacy does receive some government funding for specific projects, the Australian community has also shown us incredible support for the work that we do.

“However, we understand that things are tight in the community right now so we are thankful to the community who respond to our appeal and donate.”

To learn more about the Ballarat Legacy Club or donate, visit legacyweek.com.au.