TITLE: Chadstone - The Fashion Capital loves loval

Chadstone - The Fashion Capital is supporting local communities and sporting groups with the return of Chadstone Loves Local this month. Community sport is recognised as an important source of social connection and a sense of belonging. Following two years of disruption to junior sporting competitions, now's the time to chip in and help set up local sporting groups to start the season strong!

From 24 February to 20 March, Chadstone is inviting families to support their local sporting groups while shopping at The Fashion Capital with every $20 spent at selected Fresh Food and Sporting retailers, Department stores, Apple and JB Hi-Fi at Chadstone, providing one token to contribute towards a participating local sporting group for a share of up to $85,000 in prizing.* Families will be delighted to drop their tokens into the colourful, interactive display located at the heart of Chadstone, adjacent to the main Concierge Desk.

Chadstone will also host an in-centre photo moment on the Ground Level near ALDI, where families are encouraged to take a photo with their favourite sporting equipment. Every week, the best photo will be chosen to win a $250 Chadstone Gift Card.*

AFLW Collingwood captain and Chadstone Loves Local supporter, Steph Chiocci said the initiative is a great way to foster opportunities for the next generation of sporting superstars through local community groups and sporting groups: "The social support you find at the grassroots level helps kids feel connected and fosters a sense of belonging which is so important after the prolonged local lockdowns and online learning. It's time for kids to get back out on the field amongst friends.

"It's so important to see young kids, particularly young girls, provided an opportunity to be - and stay - involved in their local sporting groups. When I was growing up, girls weren't exposed to football like they are today, but now there is a clear pathway for young girls to the AFLW. That's why I'm so passionate about programs like Chadstone Loves Local that provide local clubs with the support they need to deliver stronger programs and increased opportunities for all young players," said Chiocci.

Chadstone Centre Manager, Daniel Boyle said "Now in its second year, the Chadstone Loves Local activation aims to give back to the local community which has always been the heart of our centre. The colourful and interactive experience aims to excite families to take part and get involved. With over 40 retailers participating, the activation stands to benefit over 4,000 kids from local sporting groups."

At the end of the activation, every local sporting group will each receive up to $5,000 in prizing*, based on the number of tokens received through the program.

For more information visit https://www.chadstone.com.au/chadstone-loves-local or connect with us on Instagram @chadstone_fashion #ChadstoneFashion

* Terms and conditions apply.