The life of Maddie Smith was honoured at a beyondblue fundraiser on Wednesday.
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Woolworths Gunnedah partnered with the Smith family to host Maddie’s Big Blue Bash for a second year in the car park of the grocery store.
More than $2000 was raised with the support of the community through donations, participation in raffles and 100 club, and sales of sweet treats and sausage sandwiches.
Maddie’s mother, Vicki, said she was thankful to everyone who lent a hand and supported the fundraising event.
“This community is incredible,” she said.
“They get behind everyone and everything.
“It’s a brilliant town to live in.”
Mrs Smith said she wished the funds could stay in the local area but was glad they would assist those in need.
“So long as it’s helping somebody, a family,” she said.
Mrs Smith said Maddie’s Big Blue Bash would now become an annual event on July 19.
July 19 is the birth date of Maddie who lost her battle with depression in March 2016.
“Maddie would want us to be out there and making a difference,” Mrs Smith said.
“She always wanted to help people.”
Mrs Smith said she was proud of her youngest daughter, Gabby, for putting so much effort into organising the event.
“She’s a trooper. She’s just unbelievable,” she said.
“She's always thinking of other people; such a heart.”
Mrs Smith is a long-time employee of Woolworths Gunnedah and said she had received amazing support from the staff as she slowly transitions back into the workplace.
Woolworths customer service manager, Patrina Marshall, said Mrs Smith would always have a place at the store and the staff were happy to come on board again this year for the fundraiser.
“We think it’s a really good cause,” she said.
“Mental health doesn’t discriminate, it touches everyone. And this is very close to us – we do it to help Vicki through.”
beyondblue is available for immediate support on 1300 22 4636.
Lifeline can be contacted 24-hours on 13 11 14.