5124 Ballina shoppers support drought appeal
NSW Country Women’s Association President Margaret Roberts has thanked all 5124 shoppers who made a purchase last Friday at Ballina Woolworths as they have contributed to the $7,067,992 that has been raised nationally for Backing our Farmers Day.
Last Friday’s profits from Woolworths and Safeway stores will be given to the Country Women’s Association (CWA) to distribute to farming families and rural communities in drought-affected areas throughout Australia.
“In our members work around the Ballina region, we know that there are people who need assistance and we encourage them to call 1800 237 876 for an application form,” said Mrs Roberts.
In addition to providing Emergency Assistance Grants funding to farmers, some of the $7 million will be given as support for projects that rural communities haven’t had the resources to undertake themselves.
“Financial support is also needed to help rebuild rural communities as well, so please call for an application if your area has been drought affected,” said Mrs Roberts.
Woolworths Director of Food, Liquor and Petrol, Greg Foran, said that Ballina region shoppers, farmers, media and CWA members had made a great contribution to the Day.
“Nationally we’ve had some 2,480,977 customers come in and fill their shopping baskets to benefit Australian farmers and their families and it’s great that the Ballina region was able to make such a significant contribution last Friday,” said Mr Foran.
“There has been great support from both urban, rural and regional shoppers all keen to do their bit to help our farming communities.”
“Since our partnership with the CWA started in 2007, the Backing our Farmers Days have raised over $17.5 million for drought-affected families and now rural communities who are experiencing drought. You cannot underestimate the work the CWA does throughout Australia and we are pleased to continue our work with them,” he said.
The processing of applications and the allocation of funds will be made after 2 March 2009 for Emergency Assistance Grants by the CWA. Applications for the Community Infrastructure Grants will close on 30 April and will be processed thereafter.
For information about Backing our Farmers Day go to www.woolworths.com.au
Application forms are available by calling 1800 237 876.
