Dandenong’s Blockbuster Video store manager Darryl Parkin promotes Starlight Video Month, which will help raise money to brighten the lives of seriously ill children.
By Shaun Inguanzo
RENTING a video or DVD in Dandenong can now help brighten the life of a child you may never meet.
Dandenong’s Blockbuster Video store is partnering with the Starlight Children’s Foundation for Video Month to raise much-needed funds for the Starlight Express van.
The van is a portable version of Starlight’s entertainment hub, which is available within most major hospitals.
The van travels to hospitals without an entertainment hub to bring some joy to the lives of young children who are battling serious or sometimes terminal illnesses.
It is the 14th year the Australian Video Industry and the Starlight Children’s Foundation have joined forces for Starlight Video Month, Starlight spokeswoman Melissa Hay said.
Other stores around the nation will join Dandenong Blockbuster to raise upwards of $300,000 to keep the Starlight Express van running.
Ms Hay said the van cost about $3000 per week to run.
Captain Starlight, the not-for-profit organisation’s mascot, also accompanies the van to hospitals, adding further delight to each visit.
Dandenong Blockbuster manager Darryl Parkin said customers could take home something to enjoy while knowing that somewhere else a seriously ill child was benefiting from the simple act.
“We have some great deals at the moment because it’s currently the school holidays,” he said.
“So not only can people help out the kids, but they also can get great value for themselves.
“It’s a win-win situation.”
To participate in Video Month, visit Blockbuster Video or any other participating store during October and rent a DVD marked with the Starlight Video Month sticker.
Proceeds from each rental will go directly towards the Starlight Children’s Foundation.
