Cottage by the Sea’s annual Giving Day raised $225,444 thanks to 329 generous supporters.
The fundraiser, which was held on Tuesday March 5, harnessed the generosity of the community to support more children and their families.
In addition to donating individually, people also joined forces with their family, friends and colleagues to support Giving Day through team fundraising. Generous matching donors doubled all Giving Day donations.
“During our 134 years of operation, we’ve been largely dependent on events and fundraisers like this,” Cottage by the Sea chief executive Adam Wake said.
“Unfortunately, the demand has increased and we look to the future on how we can offer more to more children in need. We do receive wonderful support from the community, organisations and companies, and without it we would not be able to do the work that we do for those who need it the most.
“Our support for Giving Day has increased year on year. We had 202 donors in 2022, 270 donors in 2023 and 329 donors in 2024. Apart from seeing (and hearing) the kids every day having fun on our programs, the best bit about the job is the wonderful people out there who support Cottage.”
The funds raised on Giving Day will offer kids some of the best memories of their lives. The experiences range from swimming with dolphins and seals, fishing and surfing and more.
“Children go home with memories for life and gifts,” Mr Wake said.
“More children need this. This is why we are redeveloping our secondary onsite facility, Riptide Cottage, which will support an additional 700 children each year on our programs. We look forward to welcoming more children to experience the inspiration, fun and opportunity that a Cottage program provides.”
Based in Queenscliff, Cottage by the Sea is an independent Australian children’s charity whose mission is to enhance the lives of children by providing inspiration, fun and opportunity within a holiday environment.
This year’s Giving Day matching donors included Bulls & Bears Golf Group, GW Vowell Foundation, Randall Foundation, Shine On Foundation, Social Enterprise Group, The Bourne Foundation and The Handbury Foundation, among other donors who prefer to remain anonymous.
For more information see give.cottagebythesea.com.au
