We are excited to announce Paul Toonen from Give A Child A Chance - SVDP as your 2024 Westfield Local Hero for North Lakes!

Westfield is proud to award a community grant of $20K to help Paul Toonen at Give A Child A Chance - SVDP to continue to grow their impact in the local community.

The 2024 Westfield Local Heroes program will award 125 grants across Australia and New Zealand – totalling $AUD1.24 million to support local communities.

Your 2024 Westfield North Lakes Local Hero is:

Paul Toonen

Give A Child A Chance - SVDP

Selfless. Caring. Inspiring.

For over 40 years, Paul Toonen has supported the community through his work with the St Vincent de Paul Society (SVDPS). As treasurer and co-founder of the Give a Child a Chance Committee (GACAC), Paul has been instrumental in supporting local vulnerable children.

“Smith Family research reveals that one in six children are affected by poverty,” Paul says. “Hearing from schools about the difference we’ve made through GACAC makes me swell with pride. Our work becomes a bit of a no-brainer – we must find a way to make it continue, even though we don’t receive funding from the government or Vinnies.” Paul received the Order of Australia Medal in 2023 for his commitment to our community.

Under Paul’s leadership, GACAC provides disadvantaged children with educational resources and support to ensure they can stay in school and achieve their potential. This includes uniforms, books, computers, resource fees and anything else the child needs to reduce their disadvantage.

GACAC relies solely on community support, operating because of the generosity of local businesses, community groups and generous locals.

In the last six months, GACAC has assisted 353 children across 22 schools in our community. The rising cost-of-living has further increased the demand for this support.

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities. The finalist with the most community votes is the Westfield North Lakes Local Hero for 2024, receiving a $20,000 grant for the organisation they represent. Give A Child A Chance - SVDP will use the grant to support more disadvantaged families in the region. The funds will provide educational resources so vulnerable children can continue their schooling and reach their potential.

---

We'd like to thank and acknowledge our finalists who will receive a $5K grant for the organisation they represent.

Chris Paterson from Bamboo Projects

Chris Paterson founded Bamboo Projects to support individuals with mental illness and disabilities through outdoor therapies and environmental programs. Chris' inclusive initiatives promote environmental stewardship and foster personal growth and community inclusivity. In the past year, Bamboo Projects has removed 70 tonnes of marine debris from Moreton Bay.

Deb Mills from Food for Kids

Deb Mills, program coordinator for Food for Kids, addresses food insecurity among children. After a neck injury, Deb transitioned to this role, providing essential food supplies to 11 local schools. Her efforts ensure over 1,000 students receive meals daily. This improves their concentration, learning and overall wellbeing.

---

If you need support, please phone Lifeline: 13 11 14

Recognising all our 2024 nominees

View all of the Westfield North Lakes nominees and their organisations.