BRIDGING the Gap, a program aimed at helping disadvantaged youngsters play sport, scored a $60,000 boost by Bankstown Sports and Baulkham Hills Sports Club.
Community Foundation of North Western Sydney founder Bill Dixon could not wipe the smile from his face as he accepted the donation which will cover registration fees and help with sporting equipment. He said the foundation provided many services to disadvantaged youth but Bridging the Gap was close to his heart.
As a teenager 75 years ago, he had wanted to cycle competitively but his family could not afford a bicycle so he scoured the scrapyards and tips and made one himself. ‘‘People think of the Hills as an affluent area but 22 per cent of people need some sort of financial help,’’ he said. ‘‘This funding will go a long way to help the disadvantaged in the Hills Shire.”
Bankstown Sports president John Murray presented the cheque on Wednesday with some of the foundation’s directors, dignitaries from both clubs and federal members of parliament.
Bankstown Sports Club and Baulkham Hills Sports play a valuable role in the community through partnering organisations like the Community Foundation of North Western Sydney. ‘‘We appreciate the different needs of people in the community and we place great importance on ensuring families and youth in need are given a fair go,’’ Mr Murray said. “It’s also great to know this will money will allow young people the opportunity to get involved in sport and recreation.”