The Hon Connie Bonaros MLC to Host ‘My Big Fat Greek Fundraiser’ for KickStart for Kids Against Period Poverty

The Hon Connie Bonaros MLC is excited to announce a vibrant celebration of Greek culture as she hosts My Big Fat Greek Fundraiser at the Adelaide Pavilion in support of local charity, KickStart for Kids Against Period Poverty for which she is an ambassador.

Taking place on Saturday 21 February from 6:30pm, the fundraising event will unite community, culture and generosity to raise vital funds for South Australian girls experiencing period poverty.

In a special guest appearance, Logie-award winning Greek Goddess Effie (Mary Coustas) will lead the entertainment on the night, opening the evening by bringing her trademark humour and character, Effie, to life in a comedy performance that will have the audience in stitches.

Other Hellenic entertainment will include live music from a traditional Greek band, a special performance from a Pontic Greek folk dance group, and a DJ to keep the dancefloor going well into the night.

Guests will enjoy a Greek-inspired three-course shared feast, opening with traditional mezze, followed by alternate mains of lemon and oregano lamb shank or Mediterranean-style chicken, and finishing with classic Greek desserts, paired with a four-hour drinks package including a range of local wines, beers and soft drinks.

The focus of the evening will be fundraising for KickStart for Kids Against Period Poverty, with a wine wall, raffle items, and a special live auction.

Period poverty remains a significant barrier to education for many young people in South Australia; it refers to a lack of access to sanitary products, menstrual hygiene education and washing facilities.

Launching in 2021, KickStart for Kids Against Period Poverty was established to address this issue by delivering essential menstrual hygiene products to schools across South Australia, helping to ensure young women can continue to attend school with dignity and confidence.

Media personality and KickStart for Kids ambassador Rebecca Morse will MC the event, guiding guests through an evening designed to entertain while driving awareness of a critical issue affecting young women across the state.

As a long-time ambassador for KickStart for Kids, Connie Bonaros has a deep connection with the charity and is proud to present the fundraiser with hope that it will raise vital funds for the charity while creating a fun night for the community to enjoy.

“I am a fierce advocate for justice, transparency and reform in South Australia’s Parliament, and protecting children and championing the rights of the vulnerable has always been part of my mission,” Connie said.

“Period poverty affects far too many young girls in South Australia, and it should never stand in the way of education, confidence or dignity.

“I’m truly excited to host an event that celebrates the fun and joy of Greek culture, while bringing people from around South Australia together and turning that energy into supporting young women who need it most. Ian and the entire KickStart for Kids team do such an amazing job to help the vulnerable children in our community, and I am incredibly proud to host this fundraiser alongside SA-BEST to help such an important cause,” Connie continued.

KickStart for Kids Founder Ian Steel said the involvement of community leaders and ambassadors was vital in expanding the program’s reach.

“The demand for period poverty support continues to grow, and community-led events like this are essential in helping us meet that need,” Ian said.

“Connie’s advocacy and commitment as an ambassador has been extraordinary, and we are incredibly grateful to her and SA-BEST for hosting an event that so powerfully combines generosity, community and fun,” Ian continued.

My Big Fat Greek Fundraiser will be held at the Adelaide Pavilion on Saturday 21 February at 6:30pm. Guests are encouraged to embrace the Greek theme and enjoy an unforgettable evening of food, entertainment and fundraising in support of a cause that continues to change lives for South Australian girls.

Tickets can be purchased via TryBooking: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1521909.