200 supporters attended Coast Shelter’s 30^th Anniversary Luncheon at The Entertainment Grounds, last Thursday 6^th October.

The event was held to celebrate 30 years of Coast Shelter and to raise funds to continue to expand its services and programs to help the homelessness and family and domestic violence crisis in our region.

On the day, Coast Shelter CEO Michael Starr said “We need your help more than ever. Sadly, we are seeing rising rates of homelessness amongst people over 55 and more women and children sleeping in our crisis domestic violence refuges every night of the year.”

Coast Shelter’s supporters dug deep and generously raised over $26,000 via auctions and raffles on the day.

Coast Shelter also gave out two Awards to deserving Coasties who are positively contributing to the region.

Dianne O’Brien (Aunty Di) was recognised for her outstanding contribution and bravery in sharing her story as an international best-selling author and for her contribution to the First Nations community across the Central Coast.

Paddy Gerrard, Rob Palmer and Southern Cross Austereo were recognised for their outstanding contribution to the Central Coast community, especially their work for local charities.

Reflecting on the day, Michael Starr said, “We are so grateful to everyone who made the Luncheon a huge success. I think this will be the first of many for Coast Shelter. People want to get out and about, help their community and have a little fun whilst doing it!”