UWS Staff Giving tops $50,000

UWS Staff Giving tops $50,000

January 2012

In just over two years, UWS staff have contributed more than $50,000 to support causes close to our hearts, including scholarships for UWS students in need.

UWS Staff Giving was launched in October 2009, since then UWS staff have given generously through fortnightly payroll deductions to support 5 important causes. In January 2012 these gifts topped $50,000.

Top of the list for staff gifts are scholarships for UWS students in need, providing $5,000 each year to students who are ‘doing it tough’. Without this support some of these students would not be able to continue their studies.

Natalie, a scholarship recipient and mother of 4, knows how important it is to have a bit of extra help. Natalie used her scholarship to pay for text books and other university expenses such as fuel for her car, parking and internet access.

'This scholarship proves that sometimes a little support is all it takes to get going again.'

Last year also saw the worst drought in East Africa for over 50 years and UWS staff responded by donating over $8,000 to our charity partner Oxfam to support those worst hit by the drought. This substantial donation was more than doubled by a further $10,000 contribution from the Vice-Chancellor on behalf of the University. The commitment from UWS staff to East Africa was recognised by the Oxfam Australia Executive Director, Andrew Hewett, who sent the University a personal message of thanks while on assignment in East Africa, highlighting the difference contributions from staff had made to the area.

Gifts from UWS staff to support Northcott Disability Services, the RSPCA NSW and the Salvation Army have been used to support programs in Western Sydney and beyond.

In 2012, Staff Giving will continue to provide essential funds for scholarships for UWS students and support for our four charity partners, building on the impact and success of 2011.

Regular fortnightly gifts through UWS Staff Giving provide a steady income stream and make a sustainable difference to our community for the long term.

Join UWS Staff Giving now by visiting www.uws.edu.au/staffgiving and clicking on the ‘Join Now’ button.

You can also keep up to date with UWS Staff Giving and other gifts making a difference to UWS through the Giving Newsroom.