Tasmanians can support police families this month by picking up a blue-glazed donut, with local bakery chain Banjo’s raising funds across the state for those who have lost loved ones.
Banjo’s is selling limited-edition ‘True Blue Donuts’ at all 29 Tasmanian stores until October 14, with $1 from each sale going directly to Police Legacy Tasmania.
After a successful trial in five stores last year, the campaign now hopes to raise $15,000 to help families dealing with the loss of police officers.
“We wanted to do what we can to give back and show our respect to not only police officers but their families and the communities surrounding them,” Banjo’s’ Gustav Lammerding said.
The funds will provide support including grants, education and counselling services.
The money will also help establish Police Legacy Tasmania’s first connections event, designed to bring together families facing similar hardships.
Police Legacy Tasmania chairperson Theresa Dilger said the partnership would play a vital role in the organisation’s mission.
“Their generous donations will help us provide much-needed assistance to families facing hardship or grieving the loss of a loved one,” she said.
“We strive to not only honour the memory of those who served, but to ensure that the lives of those they leave behind are not defined by tragedy, but shaped by hope, resilience and possibility.”
Founded in 2019, the charity supports police families through what it describes as professional and compassionate care during their toughest times.
Cleo Darke, who joined the organisation as a 16-year-old after her father’s death, said the support had been life-changing.
“I wanted to return to sport to dig myself out of that hole and because of this funding I didn’t have to face the financial burden to participate,” she said.
The blue donuts are available statewide until October 14.
