Education First Youth Foyer is collaborating with Mooroopna’s Bill and Beats in a fundraising event for victim-survivors of family violence.
Students have been working behind the scenes to plan the event, with funds raised going towards local support service VincentCare’s Marian Community.
Education First Youth Foyer team leader Matthew Jobling said the fun and interactive event always sold out quickly, and only limited tickets were left.
“It’s good to be out of COVID-19 and be able to hold these events. We did miss a few years due to the pandemic and [Bill and Beats owner Chris Buzza] was happy to get back on board with us this year,” Mr Jobling said.
“Students from the Foyer kindly donate their time, alongside Chris and his staff, to help prepare and serve meals, auction off items and do raffles on the night.
“In the past we’ve seen students obtain work, but it’s also about giving back and paying it forward to the community they’re involved in.”
Marian Community provides a 24/7 specialist family violence crisis response across the Goulburn Valley, including case management, advocacy and refuge accommodation.
Specialist family violence services program manager Rachel Williams said all funds raised and donated to the service were used to directly support victim-survivors, including children.
“We provide a ‘wrap around’ model of care that ensures safety and wellbeing,” she said.
“Material support can include clothing, food, mobile phones and transport in the middle of the night to help victim-survivors to escape violence.”
It’s the fourth fundraising event for Education First Youth Foyer and Bill and Beats, which have raised more than $130,000 in total for various local charities.
This year’s event will include a three-course meal, raffles, auctions and entertainment from local band Mystic & Co Duo.
It is being held at Bill and Beats, 106 McLennan St, Mooroopna, on October 21 from 6pm to 10pm.
More information and tickets are available on the Shepparton Education First Youth Foyer Facebook page.