LIFEHOUSE Care’s major annual fundraiser, LifeWalk, took place on Saturday 30 May around Coffs’ Jetty Reserve and harbourside.
Stepping out for the fifth year, LifeWalk attracted well over 300 participants on the day with numerous online supporters donating to the cause.
“LifeWalk 2026 was our biggest and most vibrant event yet, with 315 walkers joining us,” Leader of LifeHouse Care, Nathan (Nato) Hannaford told News Of The Area.
The event was also supported by more than 40 staff and volunteers, local sponsors, vendors, performers and community partners.
After weeks of rain on the Coffs Coast, the morning of the event dawned with sunshine and blue skies, and as people arrived at Jetty Reserve the coffee cart drew a queue, the music played, and the start-line area filled with people from every walk of life.
“There were babies in prams, children playing, teenagers, parents, grandparents, people in wheelchairs, walking groups, local businesses and community organisations – all coming together as one community,” Mr Hannaford said.
Mr Hannaford spoke prior to the walkers setting off on the 2.5 kilometre walk along North Wall.
“This is the vision of LifeWalk,” he said. “Not just a walk, not just a fundraiser, but people coming together, step by step and side by side, to create real local impact by building a community where people know they are seen, valued and not alone.”
This year the charity celebrated 30 years of LifeHouse Care serving the Coffs Coast community.
“Yesterday was a beautiful reminder that nobody has to face life’s challenges alone; instead, they are met with practical help, genuine relationships, encouragement and hope,” Mr Hannaford said.
Funds raised through LifeWalk support vulnerable individuals and families across the Coffs Coast, helping to provide food assistance, utility and pharmacy support, furniture and clothing vouchers, crisis intervention and ongoing practical support for local people facing difficult circumstances.
Fifty per cent of funds raised go directly toward practical and relational support for people experiencing hardship, helping them take their next step forward in life. The remaining fifty percent supports LifeHouse Care’s ongoing programs and services.
To date, LifeWalk 2026 has raised $25,219 and fundraising will continue until the end of the financial year. The goal is to reach $50,000.
By Andrea FERRARI
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