The Shoalhaven has pulled together to donate more than $400,000 for Variety - the Children's Charity.
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A staggering $396,138 was raised on Saturday, April 6, when the hammer went down on the sale of the Freedom House, a four-bedroom G.J. Gardner home.
An additional $4000 was donated post auction, taking the total raised to $400,138.
This is the largest amount raised from of all G.J. Gardner Variety Freedom House projects. More than 80 businesses and individuals gave their time, expertise, products, material and cash to build the house in the Carrington Heights estate at minimal cost to enable the greatest donation possible to Variety.
And the project has taken less than 12 months from the turning of the soil in August 2018.
Mayor Amanda Findley was thrilled to see the project receive such a great result.
"Well done to the whole team, congratulations you've made everybody proud," she said.
"I am so proud to be the mayor of Shoalhaven city that has a wonderful big heart."
Variety - the Children's Charity support kids and families facing challenges through sickness, disadvantage and special needs.
Funds raised will be used by Variety to provide practical equipment, programs and experiences to help kids improve their quality of life, and at the same time decrease the strain on families.
Some of the help that Variety provides includes assistance towards the purchase of mobility equipment, like wheelchairs, walkers or modified bikes that could cost around $7,000 to $10,000, and place many families under additional financial stress.
G.J. Gardner Shoalhaven and Wollongong directors Sean Vickery and Nathan Fay said they were overwhelmed by the generosity.
"It all started with a hugely discounted block of land from the Druce and Laurence families and since then we've continued to be absolutely blown away," Mr Vickery said.
"From the tradie teams who worked together to bring the build to fruition, to the free BBQ, media support, equipment, materials, we've had incredible discounts and donations.
"So many people have given where ever they could to make this project a success, and so many times I've been left speechless or covered in goose bumps," said Sean Vickery.
This is the 4th G.J. Gardner Variety Freedom House, and the 2nd lead by the G.J. Gardner Shoalhaven team.
"We are so appreciative," said David Sexton, CEO of Variety - the Children's Charity NSW/ACT.
"Sean and Nathan ... have really driven the enthusiasm and willingness of others in the community to get on board. Trades and suppliers have come together under their leadership and passion for the project and we're eternally grateful."
Donations are still being accepted via the website for those who would like to contribute to Variety and the work they do to support kids in need in the local community.
https://www.variety.org.au/nsw/gj-gardner-freedom-house/
