Since 1947, Australian War Widows Queensland (AWWQ) has supported the widows and families of those who fought for our country in the armed forces.
On the eve of the organisation’s 75th anniversary next year, AWWQ has renewed its commitment to its Members, to support them to live happy and healthy lives.
One way they’ll do this by strengthening their Members connection and friendships with fellow war widows, in recognition of their shared experiences and understanding.
AWWQ State President Jennifer Gregory said the organisation has been gifted a brand new minivan to provide personalised transport for Members to get to meetings and monthly social activities.
“The minivan was gifted to us by Eastern Star Foundation and we have already begun using the vehicle to transport our Members,” Mrs Gregory said.
“Having the minivan means we can provide a more enjoyable and personalised service for our Members.
“We know the sacrifices and hardship our Members have had to endure so helping them to stay socially connected in this time in their lives is really important to us.”
The minivan was funded by a $100,000 philanthropic grant from Eastern Star Foundation. The charity was one of five not-for-profits to share in over $300,000 in funding as part of Eastern Star Foundation’s 2021 grant round.
Eastern Star Foundation will also provide the first year of multi-year support to help pay for the fuel and running costs of the minivan as well as the costs of running the annual Sub-branch Taxi Subsidy Program. The organisation will also receive additional recurrent funding of $50,000 annually for two further years to support these same programs. This support will reduce the program’s operating cost pressures and allow their elderly widows to stay socially connected.
Eastern Star Foundation Chairman Jonathan Nantes congratulated AWWQ on the launch of the new vehicle.
“Eastern Star Foundation is proud to partner with AWWQ on this important initiative. We know this vehicle will support the vital work done by this wonderful organisation, to enable their Members to remain independent,” Mr Nantes said.
“We are focused on empowering those who enhance the quality of life of our ageing communities and AWWQ and their Members are worthy recipients of our grant funding,” he said.
Photo: Directors of Australian War Widows Queensland and Eastern Star Foundation (ESF) at the unveiling of the new minivan funded through an ESF grant.
