Pearcedale community fundraiser for injured teenager smashes goal by more than double in under a week
A community in Melbourne’s south east has rallied around a family after their son and popular footy player was severely injured in a car accident.
South East
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A tragic accident that left a teenager in a coma has brought out the strength and kindness of an entire community in Pearcedale.
Blake Rupe, 16, a popular member of the Pearcedale Football and Netball Club was flown to hospital after being hit by a car on Baxter-Tooradin Rd in Pearcedale on June 15.
The club started a fundraiser via GoFundMe, alongside the Pearcedale Junior Football Club and the Pearcedale Cricket Club last week, which has since raised more than $20,000 for Blake and his family in less than a week.
Residents and businesses alike have donated to the cause, beating the original goal of $10,000 in just a few days.
Pearcedale Football and Netball Club secretary Sharon Bravo said the tight-knit community also supports its own.
“We are a close community out here,” she said.
“At a time like this you sort of hope for the support but don’t expect it. It is a nice gesture that so many people have wanted to help out Blake’s family.”
Blake and his family are active members of the three sporting clubs.
“He often helps out at the canteen, and he plays with the junior footy team, and in the cricket club,” Ms Bravo said.
“His family is a strong part of our community, so the support isn’t surprising.
Ms Bravo said that when the accident happened, people wanted to help support the Rupe family straight away.
“People were already keen to support them and Blake, but weren’t sure how or what to do,” she said.
“As a club we thought this would be the easiest way for people to lend a hand.”
The clubs is also holding its own events alongside the online fundraiser to continue supporting the Rupe family.
“The Junior Football Club is auctioning off a Melbourne footy jumper over the weekend,” Ms Bravo said.
“The money from that will go directly to the family too.”
Blake remains in hospital, supported by his family and friends.
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