Mayoral Charity Ball provides hope for safer, brighter tomorrow

Last month in front of emcee David Campbell OAM and more than 220 guests, Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen presented a cheque worth $60,000 to The Haven – Nepean Women’s Shelter, thanks to the fundraising success of Penrith’s Mayoral Charity Ball.

Cr Hitchen said she was blown away by the heartfelt generosity of the Penrith community and its supporters, as every dollar collected would go towards saving the lives of women and children when they are at their most vulnerable.

“I am overwhelmed by the incredible show of camaraderie and community spirit on display tonight and I wholeheartedly thank each and every one of you for your contributions,” Cr Hitchen said.

“It costs just $100 a day to keep a woman and her child safe for 24 hours and $700 to provide full case work support for a family for a week,” she said.

“Together, we are tackling the issue of domestic violence at a community level and making a difference in the lives of these women and children who call the Penrith region home.

“The Mayoral Charity Ball has shone a light on this important issue and I hope that these conversations continue beyond this event to give women and children in our community the courage to speak up and reach out for help.”

Every ticket purchased to the Mayoral Charity Ball included a $50 donation, with attendees taking part in a silent auction via GalaBid to raise more money.

Penrith residents who were unable to attend the event were invited to leave monetary donations via the website.

Penrith City Council staff also held internal fundraising events in recent weeks to boost fundraising efforts.

Chair of The Haven, Sharon Levy, said she was grateful for the support of Council and the broader Penrith community as this donation would ensure that the organisation can keep its doors open and give women and children access to a safe space during their time of need.

“We continue to be amazed by the generosity of the Penrith community and The Haven community generally; they have stood with The Haven since before we opened our doors and for the five years since,” Ms Levy said.

“The Haven is a true community initiative that demonstrates the commitment of society and of Penrith to eradicate domestic violence.”