Ronald McDonald House Charities seeking South West engagement

Ronald McDonald House Charities launched its South West engagement committee last week.

WA chief executive Peter King said the committee was launched as a pilot designed to get more support from the regions which benefit the most.

“We serve regional families of sick kids who are getting treatment in Perth but a lot of the money that is raised to support our program comes from Perth,” he said.

“We’ve identified a need to get into regional areas and look for some more support, particularly as we continue to grow and develop.”

Committee chairwoman Neema Premji said the goal of raising $100,000 annually had been set.

“This is an exciting opportunity and is the first time such a program has been undertaken,” she said.

“We as a committee, with Ronald McDonald House Charities WA, will be working very hard to ensure its success so it continues well into the future.

Mr King hoped that committee would help “open doors” for the charity to talk to people, businesses and organisations in the South West.

“That may be through fundraising events or partnerships with us to provide services or donations,” he said.

“We’ve also asked the committee to look at how the region might be able to raise funds specifically.”

Ms Premji reiterated the focus of the group to engage aspects of the community.

“We want to ensure that there are many opportunities for South West businesses, community groups and individuals to be actively involved and help us make a difference to families, she said.

“With everyone’s help, we can do our best to keep families with sick children together and near the medical care they need.”

Ms Premji is joined on the committee by vice-chairwoman Maria Cavallo, Lesley Nelson, David Kerr, David Eagles and Caroline Portelli.