Stewart House News
A vote of thanks
Thank you to those within the public education community who continue to support Stewart House.
It is now 81 years since Stewart House opened its doors to provide public school children with a break from their current circumstance. The reasons individual children are chosen to attend our program are many and varied and the demand for our services still remains strong. We need around $2.9 million each year to operate at capacity.
Public Education's Charity of Choice
Last year, it was concerning to see that in our 80th year, donations from public schools reached an all-time low. Although many of our stalwart supporters have remained strong, we have experienced a decline in overall school support as we now compete with other not-for-profits for the much needed charity dollar.
In light of this competition, the NSW Department of Education and Communities and the NSW Teachers Federation have both recognised Stewart House as Public Education's Charity of Choice. Friday 11th May 2012, Stewart House Day, could provide the perfect opportunity for your school to support us.
New and improved merchandise
This year we are making available Stewart House branded 'BOUNCY BALLS' as a fundraising tool. Each ball has a built-in LED that activates after the first bounce. They are perfect for a good game of handball or just a bit of fun in the school playground and competitively priced at $3.00 each.
Orders need to be placed by Friday 16th March 2012 and will be delivered to schools by Thursday 5th April 2012. A merchandise order form is enclosed with this mail out.
Donation Drive
Donation Drive envelopes will be distributed by NSWDEC to every school in March. Students can donate $2.00 for a chance to win a $4,000 holiday. Make a fuss of their return on Stewart House Day, Friday 11th May.
Fundraise Anytime
We use Stewart House Day in May each year as a focal point for fundraising and to acknowledge donors at an Annual Presentation Ceremony. Schools can order their merchandise now and select any day in their calendar for fundraising. Merchandise can be conveniently ordered anytime throughout the year with pre-payment or by requesting an invoice (subject to stock availability).
Upgrade of Stewart House Facilities
Last year, using significant corporate and private donations, we were able to completely refurbish all five childrens' bathrooms and upgrade dormitory accommodation to modern standards. The 1,800 public school children who attend Stewart House annually now have a comfortable and safe environment for their 12-day stay.
During 2012 urgent work will be carried out on the roof of the upper building at Stewart House that houses dormitories, our dining room, recreation rooms and the office. The roof, leaking in many places, will need to be replaced and with the lowest quotes of around $800K, this will be major, much anticipated and essential work.
Salary Contribution Scheme for Public Education Staff
Currently 7,000 Department of Education and Communities employees contribute to Stewart House from their salary each fortnight. These generous donations enable Stewart House to meet around 38% of our operating costs.
The ask is simple...would you miss $4.00 per pay? Over a 12 month period your tax deductable donation of $104 will fund one day of a child's stay at Stewart House.
Please copy and distribute the form below to your staff to encourage them to sign up for a donation. The form is also available on our website www.stewarthouse.org.au where staff can sign up online.
With your support, Stewart House will be able to keep our doors open for public school children in need well into the future.
Yours sincerely,
Graeme Philpotts
Chief Executive
Telephone: 02 9938 3100
graeme@stewarthouse.org.au |
