August 13, 2003
Medibank Private supports Kids in the House
Medibank Private, as part of its innovative partnership with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) which was launched earlier this year, will be a major supporter of the Foundation's inaugural 'Kids in the House' juvenile diabetes research fundraising and awareness initiative.
One hundred children with juvenile diabetes (type one) from all over Australia will form this inaugural JDRF delegation, culminating in a visit to Australia's national capital, Canberra, and the opportunity to impart their experiences with diabetes to Federal MP's and the media at Parliament House on Wednesday, August 20.
Medibank Private is contributing a total value of $330,000 in cash donation and in-kind activity over three years as part of its ongoing support of JDRF in Australia. This is in addition to a $200,000 research grant Medibank Private has provided the International Diabetes Institute, taking the company's commitment to diabetes research funding to well over half a million dollars over the next three years.
The Managing Director of Medibank Private, Mr George Savvides, said that the company's support and generous funding of research that may ultimately find a cure for diabetes is consistent with its objective of helping to reduce the cost of healthcare.
"Our members expect us to support their health needs not just by paying their claims, but by working to improve the broader health and well-being of the community," Mr Savvides said.
"We hope our support of 'Kids in the House' and the JDRF will help give thousands of Australian children a better chance to lead long, productive and healthy lives."
'Kids in the House' is being organized by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation with the support of Medibank Private and other proud sponsors. Visit www.jdrf.org.au for further information on this inaugural event.
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For further information contact Simon Frost on 0419 495 468 or Maria O'Sullivan, Medibank Private, on 0408 356 509.