A woman who’s made a huge difference to the lives of others in the community was recently recognised for her selfless work at The Sista Code Luncheon.
The annual function, which raises vital funds for much-loved local charity Got Your Back Sista, welcomed a huge crowd – and special guest Australian actress and passionate activist Madeleine West – to the Merewether Surfhouse at the weekend.
While the event amassed another $44,000 to help more women and children begin again after fleeing domestic violence (DV), it was also an opportunity to bestow “Soul Sista” upon volunteer and Newcastle Sunrise Rotary Club member Linda Evans.
“She is such a shining light to people,” Got Your Back Sista founder Melissa Histon said.
“Each year, we honour a woman who epitomises the values of The Sista Code.
“And, she certainly does that.
“Linda’s often seen at the Hunter Wetlands, or washing graffiti off fences, or setting up the barbecue at Bunnings or assisting those at Ronald McDonald House Charities.
“She just gets in and does it, always with a smile on her face.”
Got Your Back Sista was established in 2016, with a vision to see women and their children happy, thriving and living independently after escaping the trauma of family violence.
It offers benevolent relief and support to those at risk of living below the poverty line.
“We give them a hand up to begin again by providing furniture and household items to set up a safe home free from violence,” Ms Histon said.
“We also empower women to thrive by running courses and programs to rebuild their confidence, self-esteem, physical and emotional wellbeing and create pathways to study and employment.
“So, fundraisers like this are important to our cause.
“I’m very grateful to everyone who came along.
“Thank you so much to all the wonderful businesses who donated prizes to the luncheon, the fantastic women who bid on the auctions and bought raffle tickets, and our fabulous volunteers and Team Got Your Back Sista.
“It was terrific to see so many enjoying the spirit of The Sista Code – happy, smiling faces and plenty of laughter.”
For more community stories:
- Divas on the Green dig deep to raise $38,000
- Maitland footballer “lucky” to share heart week message
- Aussie Ark opens ‘significant addition’ to sanctuary
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