SunnyKids Mayoral Ball to raise “much-needed” funds for child domestic violence victims

SunnyKids has announced the return of its biggest fundraising event, the Mayoral Ball, to raise money for victims of domestic and family abuse.

Guests gather at the 2019 Sunnykids Mayoral Ball. Picture: Ross Eason

A major fundraiser to help child victims of domestic violence will return this year after being called off last year due to coronavirus restrictions.

The cancellation of last year's Mayoral Ball hurt Sunshine Coast charity SunnyKids "deeply" at a time when the organisation's work was especially needed by vulnerable families.

A SunnyKids spokesman said the ball was one of their biggest fundraising events each year.

Mayor Mark Jamieson said he was delighted to see the event back on the calendar.

"The work SunnyKids does in helping to break the cycle of those who are disadvantaged or experiencing poverty is to be commended," he said.

"There is no place for domestic violence in our society and we must all do what we can to support those who are victims, as often the generosity and kindness of the community is all they have when they leave behind an environment that they can no longer stay in."

He said ball was locked in for November 6 and encouraged the community to come along and raise funds for the SunnyKids mentoring program which supported a number of children and families through their schools.

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SunnyKids general manager Kathleen Hope said the charity hoped to reach another 100 children over the next year.

"This can only be achieved through the collective fundraising efforts throughout the year, of which the SunnyKids Mayoral Ball is an important part," Ms Hope said.

"The past 12 months has really shone a spotlight on the sheer volume of women and children living in domestic and family violence situations and these programs are a circuit breaker that can help change the future directions of their lives."

SunnyKids also offers nearly to 9000 nights of emergency accommodation each year to ensure those who are victims of domestic and family violence have somewhere safe to stay and support to get through the crisis.

More information on the ball can be found here.