By Ann Marie Angebrandt
A DISABLED Melton South girl, left orphaned by the murder of her parents, has won the hearts of people across the West.
And mother of six Lesley Williams, of Hoppers Crossing, said she had devoted almost every waking hour to fundraising efforts for the five-year-old spinal bifida sufferer, since her heartbreaking tragedy earlier this month.
The girl had been a kinder-mate of her son.
“We were all shocked when we heard what happened, and I felt I had to do something,” Ms Williams said.
So, she has set herself the target of raising about $50,000 for the little girl.
Ms Williams, who has never before planned anything, is now fully focused on organising a myriad of activities over the coming weeks in Melton, Wyndham and Bacchus Marsh.
She is also taking in donations of goods to be raffled, and has left collection tins in shops around the West.
“I would tap dance on the bloody roof if it would help,” she said.
“I feel like I’m personally letting her down unless I give 1000 per cent.”
But, Ms Williams said she has been frustrated to find her calls to the Department of Human Services (DHS), asking for ideas on the best way to help the little girl, have not been returned.
And she said a bank account opened for donations had been frozen without any notification.
“I understand there are procedures to go through, but it would be good if they would let me know,” she said.
The tragic girl is now under a state child protection order.
DHS spokesman Jennene Rodgers said the department was grateful for the overwhelming public response to help, but needed to follow protocols.
“The department is working to set up a trust fund for her, and once these arrangements are finalised, it will liaise with organisers to ensure the best outcome for the child,” she said.
Wyndham Mobility, a company that sells equipment for the disabled, will donate a $2300 electric scooter.
The girl’s parents, before they were murdered, had been saving money for a year to buy the scooter.
Employee Ian Bainbridge, who is also a musician, said he was also planning a fundraising concert.
Call Ms Williams on 0410 807 844 for more information on the events.
