A vibrant room of women, warm conversations, and heartfelt stories came together on Wednesday, May 28, at the Friends of Jenny Brunch — a moving fundraiser hosted by the Jenny Souris Foundation (JSF) at the Canterbury Leagues Club in Sydney.
The event celebrated the strength of women and the power of community in continuing the legacy of the late Jenny Souris — a beloved advocate whose life was dedicated to helping others in times of hardship.
A foundation built on kindness
Established in 2021 after Jenny’s passing, the JSF provides critical support to families facing serious health challenges, offering not just financial aid but hope and solidarity when it’s needed most.
The brunch began with a warm welcome from Stacey Trip, who outlined the program and acknowledged the generosity of sponsors and donors — including Nader Fine Jewellery and Helping Hand, whose raffle prizes included a topaz and diamond ring and a Hunter Valley getaway which helped fuel the day’s fundraising efforts.
‘No one should face hardship alone’:
JSF Founder Maria Souris, Jenny’s daughter, then took the stage to reflect on the Foundation’s mission: “The JSF was created to honour Mum’s legacy — a legacy built on kindness, strength, and the belief that no one should face hardship alone.”
Guests were shown a powerful video featuring families whose lives have been transformed through JSF support — from funding a disability vehicle to accessing life-changing medication for children diagnosed with rare terminal illnesses like Sanfilippo syndrome.
One mother, overcome with emotion, shared: “The money has been absolutely crucial to our family — but equally crucial has been the hope the JSF gave us. It sustained us through the darkest days.”
Maria also took a poignant moment to honour Angela, a former recipient who has since passed away, reminding everyone of the real lives behind the cause and the lasting legacy the Foundation creates.
More than a fundraiser
Beyond raising money, the brunch fostered an atmosphere of solidarity, strength, and sisterhood. Guests mingled, connected with old and new friends, and left with a renewed sense of purpose.
“What the JSF does is truly unique,” Maria told the room. “We’re still a young organisation, so we ask for your help to spread the word. You never know who might need support — and who might not yet know we’re here.”
The event wrapped up with the closing of the silent auction, the announcement of raffle winners, and heartfelt conversations that captured the morning’s spirit of generosity and unity.
As media supporters of the JSF, The Greek Herald is committed to sharing and amplifying the work of this foundation and the women driving its mission — transforming personal loss into meaningful impact.
