The Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre (MRNC), a trusted cornerstone of community service since 1986, is thrilled to announce an auspice partnership with the Hands & Hearts Project finalised last month. This community-driven fundraising initiative is dedicated to raising essential funds to purchase trades time and materials for home repairs.
This official partnership follows the successful rollout of $50,000 donated to the Hands & Hearts Project by the Mick Fanning Charity Golf Day, supplemented by an additional $15,000 in private community donations in 2023. These funds were financially managed by MRNC, a charity with DGR status and a solid reputation in the community.
"Recovery is complex, and everyone’s journey is different. With nearly 40 years of experience delivering community-identified programs and services, MRNC is well-equipped to support these efforts," said Jill Samuels, Recovery Service Manager at MRNC.
"Our experienced team works to match the needs of our community with both in-house programs and external support." Samuels continued.
MRNC collaborates with numerous volunteers and charity partners, including GIVIT, Salvation Army, Australian Red Cross, Global Care, The Big Lift, and Lennox Lions Club, to sustain ongoing recovery efforts.
"The recovery effort is ongoing, and it takes a collaborative approach to ensure no one is left behind. We remain committed to our mission to continue supporting the needs of the Mid Richmond & surrounding community," added Samuels.
In an exciting development, the Hands & Hearts Project has teamed up with the upcoming film Washed Away, produced by Terry Webster & Stu Mckay, featuring three-time World Champion Surfer Mick Fanning. The film, which has been in production for 2.5 years, aims to tell the untold stories behind Australia’s worst-ever flood, celebrating the resilient Aussie spirit that emerged from the devastation.
"We've to captured that true Aussie community spirit in the film, and harnessing it to help raise funds for the Hands & Hearts Project through MRNC, enabling the purchase of essential trades and materials is reflective of that Aussie spirit," said Terry Webster, Washed Away.
Washed Away is a social enterprise film, with half of the profits from streaming set to be donated to MRNC via the Hands & Hearts Project.
The film serves not only as a powerful narrative of survival and unity but also as a vital fundraising tool. Half of the profits from streaming Washed Away will be donated to the MRNC via the Hands & Hearts Project. These funds will be used to purchase trades time and materials, providing crucial support to the ongoing flood recovery efforts.
"This ground breaking fundraising effort is designed to highlight the ongoing real life impact of the flood 2.5+ years on to the broader Australian community, and to raise funds to assist the most vulnerable in returning to their homes. Ensuring no one is left behind hinges on collaboration," stated Lyndall Murray, Community Advocate for the Hands & Hearts Project.
About MRNC: Since 1986, the Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre (MRNC) has been dedicated to delivering a wide range of community services, addressing the needs identified by the community. With a focus on collaboration and support, MRNC continues to be a vital resource for the Mid Richmond region.
About Hands & Hearts Project: The Hands & Hearts Project is a community-driven initiative aimed at raising funds to support flood recovery by purchasing trades time and materials for home repairs via MRNC, ensuring that the most vulnerable members of the community can return to safe and secure homes.
About Washed Away
Washed Away Film is a social enterprise film that chronicles the devastating impact of Australia's worst-ever flood and the remarkable resilience of the communities affected. Directed by Terry Webster and featuring three-time World Champion Surfer Mick Fanning, the film aims to showcase the true Aussie spirit that rose from the mud and destruction. The production, spanning 2.5 years, delves into untold stories of bravery, community solidarity, and the relentless drive to rebuild.