By JOLENE OGLE
Since 2005, Sunshine Butterflies has been helping children with disabilities but now the not-for-profit organisation is facing closure.
The industrial shed in Noosaville that currently houses Sunshine Butterflies is up for sale, and charity founder Leanna Walsh said the program was at risk of having nowhere to go.
“We want to keep going and if the building is sold, it’s just making it really difficult to be able to find somewhere we could outsource the day programs to,” Ms Walsh said.
Sunshine Butterflies currently run three day programs, Kiss My Art, Rock-Ability and woodwork classes as well as offer support groups to families and people with disabilities, as well as encourage social interaction and connection.
“By having our own building, it gives us security and allows us to enhance what we have already,” she said.
“It brings everyone together in the one spot to deliver all the programs we have.”
Ms Walsh said all was not lost with the organisation hoping to buy a McKinnon Road hobby farm to offer stability to the group as well as offer horticulture and organic growing groups, plus animal-care therapy.
“Animals just have that ability to be able to really calm kids down, especially kids with autism,” Ms Walsh said.
But, to buy the property, which goes to auction in six weeks, Sunshine Butterflies needs to raise $100,000.
“We’re asking for $1000 from 100 people or businesses in the community,” she said.
“We are hoping locals and businesses can help us to find a place to go.”
The funds raised will be put into a building fund to help the organisation secure the property when it goes to auction.
Anyone who wishes to donate can visit the Sunshine Butterflies website www.sunshinebutterflies.com.au or phone 5470 2830 for more information.
