Story of resilience to headline Foster a Future Breakfast

MELI’S Foster a Future Breakfast is returning to GMHBA Stadium on September 18, with tickets on sale now.

The annual breakfast is held during Foster Care Week, celebrating the life-changing impacts of foster carers within the community.

Sophie Delezio will get behind the microphone as this year’s inspiring speaker, highlighting resilience, hope and the power of the community.

“I am so excited to have the opportunity to visit Geelong this September in support of the Meli Foster Future Appeal,” Ms Delezio said.

“This is such a great event for an incredible cause, which I am honoured to be speaking for.”

Ms Delezio became known to the public at just two years old after suffering life-threatening burns, losing both feet, one hand and an ear in a car crash at her childcare centre.

Defying medical expectations, she learnt to walk, sit and swim again before being struck by a car three years later, sustaining a brain injury and multiple fractures, with her recovery showing immense resilience.

As a mum to 11-month-old Frankie, Ms Delezio is a passionate advocate for disability awareness and family support.

“It’s going to be a wonderful morning with a chance to share my story and connect with the incredible Meli Foster a Future Appeal,” she said.

“I have two amazing parents who stood by me through every high and low and now as a mother myself, I deeply appreciate the value of a safe and loving home.”

Meli’s Foster a Future Appeal, running from September 12 until September 20, is supported by the breakfast and raises funds for the organisation’s foster care programs across the region.

Meli chief executive officer Robyn Hayles said the breakfast honours the everyday heroes that open their homes to children in need.

“Foster carers are ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

“They provide stability, love and hope to children who need it most – sometimes for a night, sometimes for much longer.

“We need more people to consider fostering. A safe, nurturing home can change a child’s life – and bring deep purpose and connection to the carer’s life too.”

Myf Warhurst is returning to the role of MC, while Australian Idol finalist Kim Cooper provides entertainment throughout the morning.

For more information or to purchase tickets for the event, head to meli.org.au