The Penrith community came together on Friday night (21 June, 2024) for a night filled with community spirit, spectacular entertainment, and heartwarming true stories raising $67,000 for the Penrith Community Kitchen at the Mayoral Charity Fundraiser.
Well-known Australian actor, author, television, and radio personality Andrew Daddo emceed the night as guests were wowed by the circus performances by PAWS Studio, amazed by speed painter Brad Blaze and danced along to groovy tunes by Dj Alejandro and saxophonist Orget Sadiku. Along with the silent auction and raffle prizes, the donations to the Penrith Community Kitchen kept on coming throughout the evening.
With over 270 attendees enjoying the sold-out event for a very worthy cause, Penrith Mayor Todd Carney is extremely proud of how our City comes together to help and support one another when times get tough.
“I was absolutely blown away by the heartfelt generosity of the Penrith community and its supporters, as every dollar collected on the night went towards keeping the Kitchen’s doors open to those in need,” Cr Carney said.
“I want to personally thank each and every person, business and sponsor who has advocated and championed for the significance of this event and have chosen to support the Penrith Community Kitchen by attending the Mayoral Charity Fundraiser.
“Your contribution has helped this critical local service to continue to operate by supporting the community’s most vulnerable, whether it be families, individuals, the lonely or school students, I want to thank you for your generosity.”
Jeremy Bentvelzen, Penrith Community Kitchen’s President said he is grateful for the overwhelming support and generosity of the community’s contributions to the charity.
“On behalf of the Penrith Community Kitchen’s Committee, our dedicated Coordinator Cathy Craig, and our invaluable volunteers, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Penrith City Council for their unwavering support and amazing contributions,” Mr Bentvelzen said.
“With this ongoing support, we can continue to offer a comforting meal and vital social connection to those facing hardship in our community. It also sustains our Food for Kids school program currently in 11 local schools.”
The reality is that 1/3 of Australians are currently experiencing financial hardship and/or food insecurity. The Penrith Community Kitchen is a welcoming space to all and are open Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) 11:30am-1:30pm for a meal.
For more information on how you can donate to the Penrith Community Kitchen to keep their doors open, visit https://penrithcommunitykitchen.com.au/.
Photo Caption: Penrith Mayor Todd Carney with the Penrith Community Kitchen Volunteer Committee Members.
