AnglicareSA’s Star Bear loss and grief camps have received a $3,000 financial boost thanks to one of the camp’s dedicated volunteers and global furniture giant IKEA’s community engagement program.

For the last two years, social work student and IKEA employee, Hiba, has volunteered on the Star Bear camps which are free weekend camps for bereaved children, young people, and families who have lost a parent, sibling, or other significant person.

“I love volunteering, giving back to the community,” Hiba said. “When I lost my grandmother, the Star Bear volunteering helped me a lot because it was the first time I lost someone close.

“I found it hard to grieve as an adult, so going on the camp was really helpful for me and I still get emotional every time I go.

“It is really close to my heart, helping children.”

IKEA Business Navigation and Operations Manager, Patrick Hunt, said the international retailer’s community engagement program focused on what was meaningful to employees, calling for nominations each quarter for charities, organisations, and programs they would like to donate to.

“They have the opportunity to share their story and why they think a charity is a worthy nomination,” Patrick said.

“And then the leadership team gets together to review all the nominations and Hiba’s Star Bear nomination was certainly one that struck a chord.”

Star Bear Program coordinator Louanne Johns said the loss and grief program was the only free counselling and mentoring program for South Australian families with children aged 5 to 17, whose lives had been impacted by the loss of a significant loved one in their lives.

“Across the current and previous financial year, more than 200 individuals were supported through the program and our team of extraordinary volunteer like Hiba.

“We are truly grateful for this donation and will ensure the money is used to provide the best outcome for the children and families we support.”