A SCREENING of Lilo & Stitch will be held at Swan Hill Cinema Showbiz on Friday, May 23 at 7pm, to raise funds for Southern Cross Kids’ Camps (SCKC).
SCKC is a national network of volunteer-run camps for children who have experienced abuse and neglect.
The camps are completely free for families and provide a safe, joyful space where kids can feel like they belong, build courage, and discover purpose.
“It’s such a lovely opportunity,” said SCKC fundraiser Alycia Anderson.
“The kids come to the camps at no cost to their parents, and we run tailored programs focused on themes like belonging, purpose, and courage.”
This year, Ms Anderson is hosting a series of fundraising events, including the Lilo & Stitch screening, where attendees can support the cause and learn more about the impact of the camps.
“I fundraise for the Bendigo camp because I went there as a child,” Ms Anderson said.
The Bendigo junior camp hosts around 18 children and can cost between $30,000 and $40,000.
Each child is paired with a dedicated “buddy”, a consistent, caring adult who serves as both a mentor and a friend.
“My brother and I were in foster care with several other children,” Ms Anderson said.
“One-on-one attention wasn’t something we got often. Having a buddy meant everything.”
Each junior camper also receives a memory album, handcrafted by their buddy and filled with photos and a handwritten letter.
“I still have both of mine,” Ms Anderson said. “They’re a bit tattered now, but they’re very loved.
“Photos we take on camp might just show a child building a rocket; but to that child, the rocket and you being there means everything.”
Ms Anderson says the work of SCKC is inspired by a story of a man throwing starfish back into the ocean, one at a time.
“When someone tells him it won’t make a difference, he replies: ‘It made a difference to that one.’ That’s what we do.”
Ms Anderson is passionate about expanding awareness in the Swan Hill region.
“The more awareness we bring to areas like Swan Hill, the more chances we have of kids being nominated and volunteers stepping up,” she said.
“Anyone in the community can nominate a child; it’s just a matter of knowing these camps exist.”
In addition to organising the movie fundraiser, Ms Anderson is also competing in the Spartan Race this year, aiming to raise $6000 for the cause.
To donate to Alycia’s Spartan Race campaign, visit: spartanausckc.gofundraise.com.au/page/Alycia-47232397
Event Details
What: Lilo & Stitch (PG) Movie Screening
When: Friday, May 23, 7pm
Where: Swan Hill Cinema Showbiz
Tickets: $20 per person
Bookings: trybooking.com/events/landing/1393019
Extras: Small popcorn for $5 | Raffle tickets for $5
