https://www.xxzza1.com
20.8 C
Newcastle

Generosity in The Fast Lane

SHARE

Now, more than ever, we believe that kindness counts.

Did you know that one in five Australians experience a mental health condition each year?

Or, that three million Aussies are living with depression or anxiety?

The worst figure of all is that we lose eight Australians every day to suicide – that’s nearly 3,000 people taking their lives each year.

On hearing these statistics, the team at The Fast Lane knew that it had to do something.

So, they partnered with The Black Dog Ride across all of its stores since 2019, to help spark conversations about mental health, depression and suicide.

“We want to make discussion about mental health an everyday thing, so that people know that they are not alone,” The Fast Lane founder Paula Anderson said.

“After the past year, I believe more than ever that kindness counts.

“It’s important to get people in the community talking.

“We have been really proud to support the Black Dog Ride for the past two years through not only a cash donation but also through awareness.

“Every single one of our cups includes the Black Dog Ride brand and message and it’s started some really great conversations through our drive thru, which is why we are thrilled to renew our partnership with them for a third year.”

Islington and Dubbo franchisee Ricki Cox was thrilled to handover a cheque for $2500 to Black Dog Ride Dubbo coordinator Wayne Amor.

While that contribution helps, he was just as excited The Fast Lane continues to ensure it’s more than just money they are donating.

“We’re thankful for the $2,500, but also the money Paula has spent on cups and other merchandise to help aid the conversation, and her staff across all sites for encouraging customers to talk,” Mr Amor said.

“Having The Fast Lane help us get people talking about suicide and depression is so important.”

When you drive thru one of the 10 locations across NSW and Queensland, you might notice the staff wearing Black Dog Ride badges, you’ll see Black Dog imagery on the BioPak compostable cups, and you might even see the Black Dog Ride mascot Winston.

“We want these visual reminders to encourage you to have those important conversations and check in on your friends and family,” Ms Anderson said.

“Our friends at The Black Dog Ride sum it up perfectly – breaking down the barrier of silence encourages our friends, family and colleagues to seek help, because mental illnesses are just that, illnesses.

“They can be managed and people living with them can lead meaningful, fulfilling lives.

“Fostering awareness is the catalyst for encouraging help seeking behaviour and preventing suicide.

“And, if you can, join with us in making a donation to The Black Dog Ride.

“All the money raised goes to help local initiatives around mental health and depression.

“We’ve annually donated $2,500 in both 2019 and 2020 and again this year and encourage you to support them where you can, too.”

For more news stories:

More Stories

Newcastle Weekly

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Subscribe to Newcastle Weekly. News, Community, Lifestyle, Property delivered direct to your inbox! 100% Local, 100% Free.

You have Successfully Subscribed!