Care for kids- Jessica Anastasi is hoping to raise money for the Kids Helpline. 61965

By Lia Bichel
A YOUNG teacher is calling on Casey businesses to help her help kids in need.
Narre Warren resident Jessica Anastasi, 23, recently graduated with an education degree and now has her heart set on raising money for the Kids Helpline before travelling to London to do relief teaching.
“While I was on teaching rounds, I learned that about 5000 out of 8500 calls made per week to the help line are not answered because there are not enough resources. Who knows what those unanswered calls are about?” Ms Anastasi said.
“Kids Helpline makes such a big difference in their lives, so I want to raise money to go towards extra staff so more phone calls can be answered. I feel quite fortunate in life and want to help kids who are less fortunate than me.,” she said.
Ms Anastasi is asking businesses in Casey to donate items worth more than $20 to be sold at the Akoonah Market in Berwick on 17 April.
She has received 50 items and hopes to collect 250 items to raise $5000.
“Many businesses have donated restaurant vouchers, personal training sessions, hair dressing worth $40, books. There are some great items,” Ms Anastasi said.
“I am looking for anything that isn’t second hand and which is worth at least $20.”
Ms Anastasi said she wanted people to realise there were many issues young people were facing, including suicide thoughts and drug abuse.
“It’s not widely publicised,” she said.
“It’s difficult to think that people under 25 are facing such big issues.”
Anyone wanting to donate can contact Ms Anastasi on 0413 173 352 or email her on shopforacause2011@hotmail.com.
Casey residents can shop at Ms Anastasi’s stall at the market, from 7am until 2pm at Akoonah Park on 27 April.