Special needs students program gets a big boost from locals

In a heartwarming show of community spirit, IGA Gosford has stepped up with a generous $30,000 donation to the KareyandKareful Foundation’s Special Needs Students Reading Program.

The funds will go towards the distribution of the Karey and Kareful series of five storybooks, specifically tailored for special education students.

Christopher Williams, founder and author of the storybooks, expressed his deep gratitude for the local supermarket’s support.

“All of us at the KareyandKareful Foundation are so grateful to IGA for their incredibly generous and enthusiastic backing of our program,” he said.

Long-time advocate of special education, Sharryn Brownlee from the Central Coast P&C, echoed these sentiments.

“We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to Paul Beech and the entire IGA team for this fabulous donation.

Sharryn Brownlee, Central Coast P&C

“This funding will allow us to distribute these incredible storybook sets to every special education child enrolled across the region,” she said.

“Families and children are thrilled to have their own copies to read and enjoy, and this donation ensures schools can provide these resources for years to come.”

---

The impact is already being felt, with 800 special needs students across the Central Coast now enjoying the storybooks.

IGA Gosford Manager Paul Beech said his team was proud to back such a worthwhile cause.

“This program makes a real difference in the lives of these kids,” he said while presenting the cheque.

“We’re thrilled to be part of something that not only benefits local students but will also reach 1,200 more special needs students across NSW regional areas.”

The KareyandKareful Foundation, a local charity established in April last year, is backed by organisations like Minter Ellison and Bishop Collins, who assisted with registration and tax compliance.

The Foundation’s donations are fully tax-deductible, with more information available at www.kareyandkarefulfoundation.org.au.

With support from local businesses such as Bendigo Bank, MG, Jeep, Kwik Kopy, and Mitre 10, the Foundation is actively seeking additional sponsors to help expand the program further.

This collaboration highlights the power of community partnerships in improving the lives of special needs children, ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive.