Last year, Bombala Council Community Services (HACC) was approached by a concerned community member who had learned that Adele Hodak’s vehicle was no longer suitable for transporting her 14 year old daughter, Ellie.

Community Services had previously assisted in obtaining funding for a hoist system for Adele’s vehicle, but Ellie had outgrown the unit, and the concerned local was hoping that HACC would again be able to help.

Community Services Manager, Lana Martin-McInnes was more than happy to assist, and much research was undertaken to find government or benevolent societies that may have be able to help in funding the purchase of a suitable new vehicle.

After investigation, however, there did not appear to be any funding available for such a purpose, with most agencies being concerned about becoming involved with possible recurrent vehicle costs.

Through Mrs Martin-McInnes’ position of secretary of the Southern Monaro Community Fund, she then approached other members with regard to the Community Fund taking the lead role in a major local fundraising venture for the cause.

This process was initiated in July 2008, and many local organisations were contacted with regard to making a donation towards the purchase of a wheelchair accessible vehicle for Adele and Ellie.

In total a remarkable $17,000 was raised, with the Community Fund members expressing that it never ceases to amaze them how generous and giving our small community is.

The money went straight to assisting Adele in the purchase of a second hand modified Nissan Elgrand van, covering the gap in price between the new vehicle and the trade-in value of the older vehicle.

Adele said that she and Ellie were enormously grateful for the Community Fund’s help, with the new vehicle making an incredible difference to their everyday lives.