We are grateful for wonderful support over the past 12 months from many different avenues, including major events such as the JMB Foundation 10th anniversary luncheon and the Melbourne Marathon, and generous donations from organisations and individuals. Funds so kindly donated to JMB Foundation this year have enabled us to make grants available to young Australians who really need our financial assistance to improve their care, comfort and quality of life.
Last year we were able to give just under $130,000 to 17 applicants in Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales. Our grants have enabled a number of these young people to benefit from extra therapy, including hydrotherapy, speech pathology and physiotherapy, that they simply could not have managed to pay for without this assistance. We have also funded home modifications and the purchase of special equipment, and made it possible for several people to have attendant care on a weekly basis, allowing them to participate in community activities. For someone who has been confined to their home, the opportunity to get out and about, with the assistance they need to do so safely, makes an enormous difference.
Sarah Di Tomasso has been able to utilise JMB funds to engage a support worker to help her to progress with her education. Sarah suffered a traumatic brain injury in 2006 and lives in supported accommodation in Victoria. She requires assistance with most activities but her communication skills have greatly improved, helped by her English studies. Thanks to the support of our generous donors, JMB Foundation is able to provide Sarah with the opportunity to advance her education, and we are delighted to share Sarah’s own words with you.
