Coles has launched its annual Bravery Trust Appeal to support service men and women facing hard times.
Australian cricket “legend” Justin Langer, Australian Wheelchair Rugby League star Pete Arbuckle and Bravery Trust chair and decorated veteran Lieutenant Colonel Garth Callender are among the “high-profile” Bravery Trust ambassadors, supporters and beneficiaries who are backing the six-day fundraiser. Richmond Football Club has also thrown its support behind Bravery Trust and is supporting the appeal.
From today (20 April) until Anzac Day (25 April), Coles will donate 50¢ from the sale of every 12-pack of Coles Bakery biscuits and cookies sold in-store or online to military charity Bravery Trust. Customers can also make a donation of their choice in-store at Coles checkouts.
To kick off the campaign, the retailer will donate gift cards to Bravery Trust to help around 100 veterans and their families buy emergency food and groceries.
Bravery Trust Chair Lieutenant Colonel Garth Callender says funds raised will help some of Australia’s most at-risk veterans and their families.
“70% of veterans assisted by Bravery Trust have left the ADF due to a physical or mental illness, meaning their departure can be sudden and unplanned,” he says.
“We understand each veteran has their own unique journey to recovery – and we begin by assisting with their immediate financial needs to resolve the crisis. We then work longer term with veterans and their families to grow skills and confidence.
“Money raised in this year’s Coles Bravery Trust Appeal will not only help individuals, but their families and communities as well – nearly three quarters of our beneficiaries have children to support and 70% are aged 50 years or younger.
“We’re also delighted with the extra support Coles is providing this year with gift cards to help around 100 of our clients to buy emergency food and groceries…”
Coles Group General Manager Corporate & Indigenous Affairs Sally Fielke says the retailer is proud to support Aussie veterans and their families and encourages shoppers to buy a Coles Bakery biscuit or cookie for the cause.
“Coles is honoured to raise funds in our stores again for Bravery Trust in the lead up to Anzac Day and to provide them with gift cards for emergency food relief,” she says.
“Our connection to the Australian Defence Force goes back to the First World War when Coles founder GJ Coles and his brothers served in Europe, and today we are extremely proud of our team members who are active Army Reservists, helping local communities in times of need.”