Children’s centre supports social group

MEMBERS of the social group Bannockburn Inclusive received a surprise donation last week.

Group representatives met with children and staff from the Kardinia Early Learning Centre at the Bannockburn Cultural Centre where they were presented with more than $1000.

Bannockburn Inclusive social organiser Anne Hancock was handed the cheque and said the group was “lovely” to be given the support.

“It was certainly out of the blue but it was a great surprise and a lovely event for all of us,” she said.

“It was great to see our members interacting with the young children. It’s getting everyone out and about which is definitely needed.”

Bannockburn Inclusive was founded early last year with the aim of providing a social space for the region’s older, disabled and socially isolated residents.

The funds were raised during the centre’s annual art show, which took place in late October and featured the works of 86 young exhibitors.

Ms Hancock said the cash will likely go towards their Christmas party with remaining funds to be put towards a future outing or workshop.

Thirteen children from the centre and about 20 people from Bannockburn Inclusive attended the handover.

Grace Stevenson, the centre’s assistant director said it’s great to be able to support community groups in the area like Bannockburn Inclusive.

“It’s just a great organisation that helps a lot of people, and it’s so important for us to give back to people that need it,” she said.

“We’ve been doing this sort of thing in Geelong for about eight years now. This is the first for Bannockburn.”