The Penrith finalists in this year’s Westfield Local Heroes community recognition and grants program have officially been announced, with Beth Spanos, Joshua Montillano and Sue Bor named as some of the area’s most dedicated locals.
Being named as a finalist means that each of the three will receive a $5000 grant for their organisation.
For Spanos, a volunteer and committee member at Penrith Community Kitchen, this means the world.
“I felt incredibly humble [when I found out] as I really don’t like having anything focused on me, but then I understood that those people who are the decision makers for the finalists would know that with the current cost-of-living, Penrith Community Kitchen is quite possibly the lifeline our long-term clients need more than ever, and also realised we have an entire new range of clients, people who never thought that having a meal supplied each day would provide an opportunity to help make ends meet,” she said.
Bor is a dedicated advocate for children in crisis and volunteer with Kassie’s Cases – an initiative that provides suitcases filled with clothing, toys and essentials for kids entering foster care or escaping domestic violence.
“Finding out that I was a finalist was very emotional, I know I was lost for words and that doesn’t happen often,” she said.
“Part of me prays that there is never a need for such a program, but the reality is there is a big need and the thought that others in the community agree with me is amazing, it is a very scary and humbling experience.”
Montillano, a youth drug and alcohol counsellor at The Street University, said that he was “shocked, joyful, and a little embarrassed” to be put in the spotlight when he was named as a finalist.
“Being recognised as a Westfield Penrith Local Hero made me realise my passion and interest for providing support to young people daily,” he said.
“By supporting young people through The Street University in doing various workshops with the team and providing clinical treatment, it truly feels great!”
Next up, the ability to make a difference is being put into the hands of the public, with the winner, who will receive a $20,000 grant for their organisation, being the finalist who receives the most votes.
Spanos said that if chosen, Penrith Community Kitchen will be able to ensure their staples are stocked up for the busy summer period.
“We will do what has been done for over 30 years and provide a nutritional meal for those in need, and will continue to support our local schools,” she said.
“The $20,000 would provide assurances that the Kitchen will remain a safe place for anyone needing a meal!”
Bor also has a huge goal for Kassie’s Cases to ensure the organisation’s longevity.
“If we were to win the $20,000 then after my emotions were settled, we would be able to purchase 100 cases, fill them, and also purchase a computer for better communication with organisations and to help with advertising to get the word out there,” she said.
“The more people we can reach means more children will experience a peace during a time of sadness.”
Montillano hopes that he’ll be able to put the funds towards The Street University’s much loved recording studio, with new equipment and additional instruments.
“The studio attracts hundreds of at-risk youths every year, linking young people to support and treatment,” he said.
“Music alone is incredibly effective for young people, it is a powerful outlet for emotions and pressures that enable them to process and communicate their feelings. Not only that, it develops their creativity and connection, and has a positive impact on their confidence and self-esteem too.”
For more information about the finalists, or to vote, visit http://www.westfield.com.au/local-heroes.
Cassidy Pearce
Cassidy Pearce is a news and entertainment journalist with The Western Weekender. A graduate of the University of Technology Sydney, she has previously worked with Good Morning Macarthur and joined the Weekender in 2022.