NSW POLICE Legacy has received it’s largest ever private donation after businessman Dick Smith and his wife Philippa donated $1,000,000 last week.
Established in 1987, NSW Police Legacy provides financial and social support to families of police officers who have died both on and off duty. There are currently 1,380 legatees ranging in age from a one-year-old to a 104-year-old.
The donation represents the most significant grant ever provided to the organisation by an individual.
Mr Smith says that the reason we live with relative safety and comfort in a country like Australia is due to the efforts of the men and women who wear the police uniform.
“It’s an absolute credit to the risks you take,” he said.
“I have been fortunate to give a number of talks down at the Police Academy at Goulburn.
“I admire every one of you and in my whole lifetime, it’s wonderful to be protected by the police.”
Commissioner Mal Lanyon APM said the donation was gratefully accepted and would go a long way to supporting NSW Police Legacy.
“It is not just the financial benefit this will have to those who rely on Legacy for assistance but it actually goes beyond that. It show’s that they haven’t been forgotten by the community when they lose a loved one. It’s a lovely gesture,” Commissioner Lanyon said.
Chair of NSW Police Legacy, Superintendent Donna McCarthy APM, said the donation would allow the organisation to greatly expand on its support to those who relied on it.
“We have many kids who rely on us for financial support regarding their education needs. This has now opened the way for additional education grants,” she said.
“Mr Smith has been a great advocate for police as well as NSW Police Legacy for many years. I can’t tell you how grateful we all are to receive this contribution.”
