South32 Illawarra Metallurgical Coal (IMC) has donated more than A$41,000 to four schools and two not-for-profit organisations in the Macarthur and Wollondilly regions to help support local students and families through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“We cannot do what we do without the support of organisations like South32 – this donation will go so far. Together we make a difference,” said Shining Stars Foundation Co-Founder Lyn Townsend.
IMC donated $10,000 to the Shining Stars Foundation which will be used to buy 300 food hampers for families in the Wollondilly region, including those who have had their employment impacted by COVID-19 restrictions.
Another not-for-profit organisation Community Links Wollondilly also received $10,000 towards providing emergency accommodation, hygiene products, food vouchers, help with bill payments, clothing, transport and some toys for children in the Wollondilly area.
IMC’s Community Partnership Program was established in 2004 to support community projects and initiatives in the region surrounding South32’s Appin mine.
“As a major local employer, South32 Illawarra Metallurgical Coal has played an important role in helping to support the Macarthur and Wollondilly regions through the COVID-19 pandemic,” said IMC Vice President Operations Wayne Bull.
Just over half of the funding ($21,187), has been given to Appin, Cawdor, Douglas Park and Wilton public schools and is being used to buy 24 new laptops and provide access to online learning platforms for children aged between kindergarten and Year 6.
“We thank South 32 for their support. This technology will be useful for our students’ learning in our school this term and into the future,” said Robyn Tomlin, Principal, Douglas Park Public School.
For more information about the Community Partnership Program or to apply for funding, email illawarracommunity@south32.net or phone 1800 102 210.
Photo: Shining Stars Foundation co-founders Kylee Bentham & Lyn Townsend
