For 35 years, Cranbourne CFA member Debbie Jackson has been tin-rattling for the Good Friday Appeal, raising much-needed funds for sick children attending the Royal Children’s Hospital.
Debbie is the coordinator of the appeal for Casey Group and this year they’ll reach a huge milestone, raising $350,0000 for the extremely worthwhile cause.
Debbie said each year eight to nine brigades stand on the major intersection of South Gippsland Hwy and Sladen St in Cranbourne and rattle tins, and last year they raised a massive $15,710 for the cause.
“I remember my parents throwing out a donation through the car window to CFA and now it’s my turn to help,” she said.
“You don’t even have to ask people twice to give donations on the day. Most people throw out the window what they have. Anything above a zero and you’re helping out.”
Debbie said she was motivated to keep going after many years because it was such a good cause.
“My job wouldn’t get done if I didn’t have the support of other CFA members on the day. I appreciate everyone’s help and it couldn’t be done without them.”
Debbie said it was important to raise money for the Good Friday Appeal because nurses and doctors could only do so much without fundraising for the children.
“The bigger the total the better it is and the more you can give to the kids, the more equipment you can buy,” she said.
“In the past, I’ve had relatives go to the children’s hospital. Most families know someone who has gone for treatment at the hospital. You give back what you get.
“And every year brigade members and people driving past to donate are excited to be part of the collection on Good Friday.
“It’s a good atmosphere. It makes bridge members want to collect on the day. The kids get so excited to see the fire trucks and all our firefighters collecting.”
