Mary Macs shows community spirit

Local charity Mary Macs Place is testament to the goodwill of the Peninsula community, to its generous spirit and high level of participation, according to new project coordinator Ms Christine Burge.

"Since I have commenced my time with the service I have been impressed by how much Mary Mac's Place is regarded as a vital part of the Peninsula community," Ms Burge said.

She said the service would not be possible without the support of volunteers, businesses and residents who help out in various ways

"Recently wonderful donations have been received from a variety of local organisations such as the residents of Deepwater Court, the students of St Patricks College, Ettalong Baptist Church, Hope Church, Woy Woy Country Women's Association, Rotary Club of Umina, IGA Ettalong and Woy Woy Lions.

"Apart from the fantastic volunteers who donate their time and energy there are also many individuals within our community who donate to Mary Mac's Place anonymously.

"One local community member brings in oranges on a regular basis while others have requested that donations be made to Mary Mac's Place in memory of recently deceased relatives.

"It is wonderful to see so many people in our community thinking of others.

"There are a variety of local businesses who regularly donate excess foodstuffs.

"This year grants have been received from Everglades Country Club, Ettalong Bowling Club and Ettalong Memorial Club as part of the Community Development Support Grants."

Ms Burge said that while the appreciation and admiration for the community's support was overwhelming the need for the service was increasing each week.

"Mary Mac's Place volunteers prepare and serve over 1800 nutritious, hot meals each month to homeless and disadvantaged men, women and children in a warm and welcoming environment," Ms Burge said.

"The volunteers at Mary Mac's Place also provide information and referrals to other community services.

"Many more individuals and families are finding it difficult to make ends meet each week and the need for the service provided by Mary Mac's Place increases each week.

"For many people in our community Mary Mac's Place provides a welcoming respite from the problems they experience in their lives."

If you would like to support Mary Mac's Place, contact Christine Burge on 4341 0584 or 0417 671 973.

Press release, 5 Oct 2010 Christine Burge, Mary Macs Place