By Brendan Rees
Cranbourne Information Support Service’s (CISS) bid to support families with the cost of education has been boosted by a $10,000 gift from the Commonwealth Bank.
The grant, which will help more families afford uniforms, books and other school expenses, was made possible when staff nominated CISS for the bank’s Centenary Grant.
CISS executive officer Leanne Petrides gratefully accepted the donation at the Cranbourne CISS on Friday 13 April, thanking the Commonwealth Bank and its Cranbourne’s employees for the generous grant.
“CISS is overwhelmed to receive this generous donation from the Cranbourne Branch of the Commonwealth Bank, which will support our Education Assistance Programs,” Ms Petrides said.
“After supporting 177 families this year with expenses associated with sending their children back to school, we had to close our program early due to lack of funds.
“With an average of $84 being provided for each student, this donation means we will be able to support an additional 120 students in this year’s program,” she said.
Cranbourne Commonwealth Bank spokeswoman Stephanie Cozzani said the branch nominated CISS for the grant after learning about the incredible work it was doing in improving the education and wellbeing of the children in the community.
“For the staff at the Cranbourne branch, we feel the Back to School program perfectly aligns with the vision of the Commonwealth Bank, to excel at securing and enhancing the financial well-being of people, businesses and communities,” Ms Cozzani said.
“Last year, the program assisted over 500 children from 236 families by contributing to the purchase of text books, electronic equipment and devices such as laptops/tablets, as well as uniforms and stationery,” she said.
“As a team we are committed to continue engaging with the organisation, by volunteering our time and our expertise however it can be used best.”
This year celebrates a 100-year legacy of giving through the Commonwealth Bank Foundation.
Employees will be handing out $10 million to community organisations with 1,000 Centenary Grants valued at $10,000 each in appreciation for making a difference in the community.
