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Variety & Woolworths Bring Sunshine to Students in Need
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Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT and Woolworths are calling on customers to help deliver sunshine to children in need this March and April through the Woolworths Easter Appeal.  

The Appeal supports Variety’s life-changing ​​grants, scholarships and programs including initiatives like the Variety Sunshine Coach.  

The Variety Sunshine Coach program provides vital transportation so students can access educational, sporting and community activities they might otherwise miss out on.  

For Year 8 twins Matteo and Alessio, access to their school’s Variety Sunshine Coach has transformed what it means to be included.  

Their Mum, Daniela, said the 13-year-olds, who both have autism and differing support needs, thrive during their outings on the​​ purpose-built coach. 

“Matteo looks forward to going to school and has shown improvements in his communication and engagement since participating in regular outings,” Daniela said.  

“Alessio comes home excited. He talks about where he’s been and even asks to go back. That’s how we know he’s had a great day when he wants to return somewhere,” she said.  

“The Sunshine Coach gives them the chance to build independence and experience everyday activities in a safe and comfortable way. We have complete confidence in how the school supports them. That trust brings enormous peace of mind.”  

Variety NSW/ACT CEO, Tony Warner, said every donation helps to create meaningful change for children like Matteo and Alessio. 

“Variety believes in a world where every child can thrive, belong and reach their full potential, regardless of disability or circumstance,” he said. 

“Support through the Woolworths Easter Appeal helps ensure more children can safely participate in school life and the wider community.”  

Daniela agrees.  

“A huge thank you to everyone who makes programs like this possible. It has made a world of difference — not just for our two boys, but for many students who will benefit now and into the future.”  

Woolworths Easter Appeal 2026  

From Wednesday 11 March to Tuesday 7 April 2026, Woolworths customers across NSW and ACT can donate in-store or online as part of the Woolworths Easter Appeal. ​​Funds will support children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with a disability. 

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Applications Open for Variety Heart Scholarships

Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT is calling on families to apply for a 2026 Variety Heart Scholarship, offering life-changing support for young people living with disabilities, chronic illness or financial hardship.   The scholarship provides practical, financial assistance to help children aged 8 – 18 years reach their full potential in sport, music and the creative arts, removing barriers and creating opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach.   Whether its funding for specialist equipment, competitions or training programs, the scholarship is designed to empower children to pursue their passions, build their talent and participate fully in their chosen field.  Variety NSW/ACT CEO, Tony Warner, said the program continues to deliver meaningful, long-term impact for families doing it tough.  “Every child deserves the chance to follow their dreams and feel included, regardless of circumstances,” he said.  “The Variety Heart Scholarship is about recognising potential and providing the support needed to help children thrive – on the field, on the stage, and beyond.”  Over the past decade, more than 500 scholarships have been granted with receipients including:  Parents, carers and guardians of eligible children are encouraged to apply now with applications open until Thursday 21 May at 4pm – visit https://nsw.variety.org.au/variety-heart-scholarships/.   Variety Heart Scholarships are made possible by presenting partner, the Grahame Mapp Family Foundation, in honour of the late Gillian Mapp. 

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