Mayoral Charity Golf Day donation to provide support for The Haven

Tuesday, 27 April 2021

Penrith City Council is pleased to announce a donation of $7,853 will go to The Haven – Nepean Women’s Shelter following a hugely successful Mayoral Charity Golf Day.

As members of the community stepped onto Penrith Golf Club’s fairways for a day of fun on Friday 12 March, much-needed funds were raised for Council’s 2021 charity partner, which provides emergency shelter and support for local women and their children fleeing domestic violence situations.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM thanked everyone who took part to help raise money for a “truly worthy cause”.

“I am always overwhelmed by the generosity of our sponsors and the participants on the day,” Cr McKeown said.

“To be there and see the people of Penrith - from Council staff to various local businesses - come out in force and band together for a truly worthy cause was humbling.

“Sadly, domestic violence remains an issue and while the COVID-19 crisis led to tough financial positions for not-for-profit organisations, instances of domestic violence increased.

“This is why, on behalf of Council, I am so pleased we fundraised for a wonderful charity in the midst of challenging times.”

The Haven also provides knowledge and support for women so they may build confidence to regain control of their lives and start over with a newfound sense of freedom and with community support, safety and connections backing them.

Chair of The Haven, Sharon Levy, said it costs roughly $100 per night for a woman to stay, which highlights the significance of the $7,853 donation.

“Thank you to Council for choosing us to be the nominated charity for this event and thank you to those who came along on the day. The money raised will go a long way towards keeping our doors open,” Ms Levy said.

This week marks an important milestone for the organisation, having opened its doors three years ago. The charity has provided “over 11,000 bed nights” in that time, helping more than 100 women and just under 150 children.

“It has been an emotional week for us as we reflect on what we have done but also as we learn what has been happening in recent weeks through the media – it highlights the importance of the services we are providing right now.”

The Mayoral Charity Golf Day brings Council and local businesses together to foster philanthropy and highlight how we can partner to support vulnerable people in our community.

Over the years, the Charity Golf Day has supported charities such as LikeMind Penrith, Riding for the Disabled, Life Education and Rotary House Nepean Hospital.

Photo caption: (L to R): Haven Treasurer Fiona Skrzypnik and Chair of The Haven Sharon Levy are presented with the cheque from the Mayoral Charity Golf Day by Penrith City Council General Manager Warwick Winn, Penrith Mayor Cr Karen McKeown OAM and Deputy Mayor and Haven Board Member Cr Tricia Hitchen.

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Tuesday, 27 April 2021.