Subj : StarJam's emergency appeal success 'incredible, unexpected'
To   : All
From : News Person
Date : Mon Apr 08 2024 01:21 pm

A charity helping young people with disabilities has hailed the "incredible
and unexpected" support from the community after donations eclipsed the
initial goal required to help keep its doors open.


On Tuesday last week, StarJam revealed it would have to close in two weeks
due to a short-term cashflow problem.


However, a fundraising campaign has been "overwhelmingly" successful.


StarJam chief executive Gilli Sinclair said the charity has raised over $165k
and surpassed its initial $100k goal in a matter of days.


"It has been a testament to our whanau coming together, along with the wider
community who have shared the campaign widely and generously donated."


She added: "These are difficult times, but the doors must remain open for
places that bring social connection and joy to Jammers and their whanau and
we will work hard to achieve this at StarJam."


The not-for-profit organisation - which runs music, dance and performance
workshops for young people with disabilities - thanked the entire community.


"As a mum of a Jammer (a young person with disabilities who attends StarJam)
thank you thank you thank you to every single person who donated. This is one
of the most important things my daughter does and the thought of it not being
available was unthinkable," said Jacqui Hellyer.


StarJam said the campaign was not only a "vital lifeline" in terms of funds
but also in terms of raising awareness about the work the charity does.


It would continue to diversify its funding streams and is actively seeking
new partnerships and initiatives to ensure financial sustainability.

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