Sarah Lilli Fund

Why It Was Set Up

The Sarah Lilli Fund was set up in 2006 by the Payne family, in conjunction with Barnardos, to honour the memory of their daughter who died of a rare brain disorder shortly after her 10th birthday. This has been a way to remember Sarah and celebrate her life, as well as help children who go without the kind of opportunities she had.

The aims of the Fund are to give children in need the chance to:

• pursue a creative, sporting or social opportunity that is their chosen interest, and of benefit to their development and wellbeing, or

• enjoy a special celebration, experience or holiday.

Donate to the Sarah Lilli Fund now!

How the Fund Works

The operation of the Fund is simple and provides good value for money.

Applications for grants are made through field workers from Barnardos or other social agencies. Often these are for children from families they are already working with or are aware of, where they know there’s a real need and no other source of help.

The applications are reviewed by a Barnardos Regional Manager and, because of the professional input, they can be turned round in a few days or even hours in some cases.

What the Grants Are For

Since it started the Fund has been able to help hundreds of children with grants such as: $55 for Junior Body Jam classes for a term; $70 for school camp costs; $160 for gymnastics fees and an outfit; $175 for a brother and sister to attend swimming lessons for a term; $230 to send two brothers to summer camp for a week.

For the children it’s the chance to enjoy an interest they are passionate about, or experience a special holiday. It enables them to participate and feel they belong with their peers.

For their parents, often a solo mum, it can mean connection to other families, relief from some financial pressure, and often a much-needed break from the stresses of everyday life.

Donating to the Sarah Lilli Fund

The  Sarah Lilli Fund is supported by Barnardos’ existing administration functions. This means that all money donated goes to the children who are helped.

You can make a one-off donation on-line or by cheque, or pledge your ongoing support. Your donation will help ensure Sarah's legacy can continue to bring hope and fun for more children in New Zealand.

Contact us for enquiries about the Sarah Lilli Fund.