But with no sport being played at the moment - because of the COVID-19 pandemic - local club Benalla All Blacks is extending that same offer of a hot beverage or treat to the community’s heroes; our frontline workers.
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With the help of the nationwide Toyota Good for Money Raffle initiative, the All Blacks have committed to using all the money raised in April and May to purchase and gift vouchers to local workers.
How it works is people can purchase a raffle ticket - or 10 - for $5 to go to their nominated club, which also puts them in the running to win one of 10 prizes, including cars, AFL coaching clinics, or signed memorabilia.
The money spent on tickets is redirected back to the chosen club to help support and build up local football clubs.
After participating in the initiative for the first time last season, All Blacks' treasurer Paul O’Brien said using funds to thank frontline workers was the club’s way to “do something" for those helping to keep the community safe.
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“The idea came up at a meeting, and was passed around,” O’Brien said.
“This was something we could do and our club people can participate in.
“We thought the way it was, frontline workers are putting their lives at risk and keeping us safe. It’s worth a free coffee at least.
“We wanted to show we’re thinking of them and thanking them.”
The club has raised more than $1300 through the raffle and outlaid up to $700 in Rustik vouchers to workers including doctors, paramedics, chemists, and aged care homes - with more to be distributed in the coming days.
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When O’Brien first went to present vouchers to those essential services, frontline workers were initially surprised with the gifts.
“They were startled at the time, but very thankful and appreciative,” he said.
“They thought it was a great idea.”
The club hopes to keep supporting frontline workers in the coming month, with many in the community getting behind the idea.
“We’ve had a good response. It’s been sent out to friends and relatives,” O’Brien said.
“We’ll keep going with it, and whatever we get in we spend.”
● To purchase raffle tickets go to https://toyotagoodforfooty.raffletix.com.au/benallaallblacksfnc?q=buy
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