Westfield destinations across Australia and New Zealand have announced the finalists for the 2023 Westfield Local Heroes community recognition and grants program, with three local women selected by Westfield Tuggerah.
The successful hero for each centre will be awarded a $20,000 grant for the group or organisation he or she represents and each finalist will receive a $5,000 grant for his or her group or organisation.
Since the program was established in 2018, the Westfield Local Heroes program has made a significant difference to more than 600 community organisations, investing a total of $6.135M in community grants, with a further $1.26M to be awarded this year.
Finalists for Westfield Tuggerah this year are Kim Juresa, Mirandra Browne and Sharyn Becker.
Retired nurse Kim Juresa is the driving force behind the provision of food and connection for at least 1000 locals as the President of the Berkeley Vale Neighbourhood Centre.
The centre offers a food pantry and hosts communal meals and Brekkie on the Go gatherings for school children.
Mirandra Browne brings joy to the community through low-cost and free food through her volunteer-run The Entrance Food Hub.
The Hub is open four days a week and provides food for about 600 people.
Browne was driven to act when she saw that people around her needed help with everything growing from there.
Sharyn Becker works tirelessly at the Because We Care Boutique to provide women overcoming adversity with attire for different occasions.
Women visit the volunteer-run store for free consultations and receive outfits for job interviews, court appearances, work or important appointments.
Many of the women are provided with full work wardrobes.
Westfield Tuggerah Centre Manager, Melanie Smith, said the program shone a spotlight on those in the community who are making an impactful contribution.
“This year’s finalists span a wide range of sectors, showcasing the widespread and positive impact of these grants to the community,” she said.
“As we introduce our three 2023 finalists, we welcome the community to vote and join us in recognising and celebrating our local heroes.”
Voting is now opens and closes on Monday, September 11.
The successful hero of each Westfield destination will be announced on Tuesday, October 10.
To read more about the finalists and cast your vote visit https://www.westfield.com.au/tuggerah.
Source:
Westfield