Branching out for charity

Bendigo Bank presented Berry Street with an $11,000 cheque last week, from left, Pakenham Branch Manager Norm Davidson, Mark Northeast from Tee Up for Kids, Berry Street Senior Manager Mary Sophu, Pakenham Golf Club Head Professional Haydn Thompson and Berwick Branch Manager Eddy Leo. 172041 Picture: DAVID NAGEL

The charitable arm of Bendigo Bank continues to support the community, with local branches making a very special presentation last Thursday.
Bendigo Bank has raised $40,000 for the Tee Up for Kids Foundation, including $15,000 for Berry Street, to assist regional children living in out-of-home care to achieve through education.
In the West Gippsland region $11,000 was raised through a very successful day hosted by the Bendigo Bank at the Pakenham Golf Club.
The funds raised will be spent on providing vulnerable children and young people in Gippsland with a better start in life through targeted education programs.
Annette Jackson, Director of Berry Street’s Gippsland service, said keeping young people connected to education is critical.
“For young people in out of home care, staying engaged in education ensures children are provided with the best start in life,” she said.
Director of Tee Up for Kids and former Victorian Commissioner for Children and Young People, Mr Bernie Geary, expressed his sincere gratitude to Bendigo Bank members of staff for their efforts.
“Bendigo Bank’s enthusiasm for the foundation’s work is heartening,” Mr Geary said.
“The staff have set the standard for community giving and their commitment to community welfare. It is a credit to the bank, its staff and the local community.”
Tee Up For Kids would like to acknowledge and thank each of the participating Bendigo Banks for their support of this initiative.