Annah White delivering groceries that were donated at Lawrence’s IGA.
Our community continues to support charity crisis accommodation provider Ronald McDonald House (RMHC), at the grocery collection point at Lawrence’s IGA, and recently Annah White’s recent Pay It Forward Stripey Challenge.
Leo White was born with a laryngeal cleft. This inhibits his breathing, eating and drinking.
RMHC Orange and Westmead have been a home away from home for the White’s during his surgeries.
“Leo is surprising us every single day,” Annah said.
“We are seeing huge improvements with his swallowing and things are looking positive. He isn’t completely out of the woods, and we have two Sydney trips this month for specialist appointments, but we are pleased with his progress.”
During Pay It Forward month in August, residents rallied behind Annah contributing to her fundraising total of $3,581.
“It is heartwarming knowing we live in such a generous and supportive community,” Mrs White said.
“This town really is something special.
Personally, I grew up in Newcastle where everyone you saw down the street was most likely a stranger.”
Canowindra Preschool Director Bronwyn Lay was very supportive of this fundraiser, acknowledging how the charity supports Canowindra families.
The preschool children dressed up in striped clothes and collected donations totaling $396.
Other schools couldn’t participate due to COVID-19 restrictions.
“We also had Donna at Frock On sell-ing some stripey clothes at a discount and Kim at Central West Saddlery donate some stripey masks,” Mrs White said.
Residents continue to donate non-perishable goods at Lawrence’s IGA. These are passed on to both RMHC in Orange and Westmead for families.
“From our own personal experience it is such a relief to be able to cook your family meals with stuff readily available,” Annah said.
RMHC Orange has saved families from Canowindra $13,950 in accommodation alone.