Kids Fund is an Illawarra-based charity managed by The Disability Trust that purchases essential aids and equipment for children with special needs and significant disabilities. Example equipment includes: walkers, orthotics, communicators, hoists, wheelchairs, and seating systems. For the child and family, these items can help achieve greater levels of inclusion and independence.

By Kids Fund purchasing the aids and equipment for the child, a significant financial burden is removed from the family. Kids fund assists families when all other funding options have been exhausted.

Kids fund receives no government funding and relies on the community for all donations. Each year, Kids Fund allocates approximately $100,000 on aids and equipment for children in the Wollongong, Kiama and Shellharbour local council areas. Now 12 years old, the fund has raised close to $1 million and has assisted over 400 local families.

The Disability Trust convenes an inter-organisation allocation committee every 6 months to review and approve applications received. All items have been identified by a suitable qualified health professional such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist who understands the child's needs.

For more information on Kids Fund, including application forms, please visit the Kids Fund website and "Like" us on Facebook.

History was made on July 14/15 2012, when the Wests Illawarra Bandage Bear event was held twice in less than 24 hours.

Already considered one of Australia's premier fundraising evenings in its 13th year, Leigh Stewart (MC) rallied the community to up the ante and repeat the traditional Saturday night on the Sunday afternoon. The Sunday event was aimed at engaging with smaller businesses and the general community and far exceeded all expectations.