We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our volunteers, supporters, and generous donors for helping us exceed our fundraising target and achieve an incredible result of $325,000 or the equivalent of 6,500 Buddy Bags for children escaping violence.
On 12 September 2023, 1639 wonderful people gave generously to the Foundation on our second ever Alannah & Madeline Day, helping us to raise more than $325,000 to support vulnerable children and young people escaping violence.
Every dollar donated on the day between 8am and 8pm AEST was kindly matched by our official campaign partner, Wilson Security, meaning that each dollar donated will have twice the impact for children in crisis.
Over the next year, 13,000 children will be removed from violent and abusive homes. Many of them will arrive at emergency care with nothing but the clothes they are wearing.
With the generous donations from Alannah & Madeline Day, we can continue to provide more than 6,500 Buddy Bags to these vulnerable children.
Buddy Bags are brand new backpacks carefully packed by volunteers with essential items like new pyjamas, underwear and toiletries, plus a trauma-informed toy and a book. And a teddy to give a child extra comfort as they settle into their foster home.
Our wonderful Ambassador Melissa Doyle AM talked about our Buddy Bag program on Sunrise this Alannah & Madeline Day.
This September was the second year we have held Alannah & Madeline Day, and Buddy Bags HQ was buzzing with enthusiasm and excitement as staff, volunteers and Buddy Bear made more than 4,000 phone calls and were buoyed by the many heartwarming conversations with our valued donors, who gave so generously.
Our Founding Patron, Walter Mikac AM shared his deep gratitude to those who supported the campaign in memory of his daughters, Alannah and Madeline who were tragically killed alongside their mother at Port Arthur in 1996.
"I have been so overwhelmed not only by the incredible donations made, but even more by the humbling words of support we received for the work we are doing. I can’t think of a better way to honour the memory of my two daughters, Alannah and Madeline. Thank you.”
With the kind support of our donors, we will be able to help vulnerable children and young people who have experienced violence or trauma to recover, heal, and thrive.
If you missed out on donating on Alannah & Madeline Day, you can still show your support and donate today.
Every child has a right to be safe. Together, we can make this a reality.