She's been a tireless volunteer with the Josephite Foundation Cowra's No Interest Loans Scheme - or NILS - since their first loan was issued in 2002, but now local Maria Bell is farewelling the group as she moves to Bateau Bay.
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At a farewell for Ms Bell on Thursday, July 24, Debbie Butwell said Ms Bell, who's lived in Cowra for 32 years, has been a "powerhouse of support' to the foundation, holding the position of chair for many years.
"Maria's commitment was recognised on a national level when she was awarded runner-up national NILS Volunteer of the Year in 2012," Ms Butwell said.
NILS provides people in Cowra, Canowindra and Grenfell with interest-free loans of up to $1000 for household items, medical and dental services.
In order to be eligible, people must hold a health care or pensioner concession card and demonstrate that they can repay the loan.
Most commonly, people use the loans to buy fridges and washing machines, but they can be used for a range of other expenses as well.
For more information about the scheme or to make a donation, contact Debbie on 6340 1100 or at the Cowra Information and Neighbourhood Centre on Tuesday or Wednesday.
