Week helps lasting Legacy

LEGACY’S annual fundraising campaign will begin this weekend, reminding the families of veterans they’re not alone in an increasingly isolated world.

Legacy Week is the organisation’s major fundraising initiative, with the proceeds raised in Bendigo from 29 August to 4 September going towards support programs in the region.

“We know everybody is doing it tough this year so the focus in still having Legacy Week is to let people know we’re here, we’re still available, Legacy is still working,” said Kenrick Egan, president of Bendigo Legacy.

“Every little bit helps. We’re happy with every little bit and rest assured it will go to the community in Bendigo.”

In years past, the organisation’s volunteers, known as Legatees, along with reserves and young cadets would sell badges, teddy bears and pens to members of the public at supermarkets and shopping centres.

Under current COVID-19 restrictions, items will only be available for purchase online or by phone and a set of cards unique to Bendigo and designed by local artist Sarah Wallace-Smith are also on offer.

The money raised through the sales will go towards funding Bendigo Legacy’s work with widows and family members of veterans.

“We provide support to the families of veterans and it’s support as to what they need,” Ms Egan said.

“It might be monetary, it might be just having a cuppa and a chat over the magazine that we put out every fortnight. With some of our beneficiaries it’s regular support, with some it’s one-off.”

Bendigo Legacy’s beneficiaries total 347 people – helped by 40 active Legatees, and secretary Judi Perry said that support can also extend to children for their education or to send them to Legacy camps around the country.

“We would be able to assist with them getting to these camps so that the children are with other children that are just like them, either their father is really unwell or not there, so we provide that sort of support as well,” she said.

To purchase a Legacy Week item, visit legacy.com.au/legacy-week or call Bendigo Legacy on 5443 6332.