Sr. Helen Malone describes her sister Jan Plier-Malone as a “giving and humble woman with a loving heart”.

Recently, two years after Jan’s passing, Sr. Helen received a surprising but welcome reminder of her sister’s generosity when she learned of her bequest left to Villa Maria Catholic Homes (VMCH).

“I wasn’t surprised that she gave a donation, as that’s something she would do, but I was amazed at the amount,” Sr. Helen said.

Children who attend VMCH specialist school St Paul’s College will be the deserving beneficiaries of Jan’s generosity, with her gift used to support their educational outcomes at the soon to be relocated school in Balwyn.

Jan, who lived in Camberwell her whole life, also included six other charities in her Will who will benefit from her generosity.

September 10-14 is Include a Charity Week; aimed at encouraging and educating people to leave a gift in their Will once their family and friends have been provided for.

VMCH Grants and Bequest Officer Sandra Rosano, who notified Sr. Helen of her sister’s amazing gift, said it was a “privilege” to learn more about the woman from her only living sibling.

Coincidentally, Sr. Helen lives at one of VMCH’s aged care communities, St Catherine’s, in Balwyn.

“Sr Helen was very proud that her sister had left her Estate to charities, but said they had never spoken about it,” said Sandra.

“Generous gifts like Jan’s – or those of any size – leave a lasting legacy for people who need it most and we are so grateful for their contributions.”

Sr. Helen said Jan, who worked as Draftswoman for a Government department, was an independent woman who “never let the grass grow under her feet”.

She loved cats, travelling, and her Catholic faith.

“I really was overjoyed to find she’d left the bequest,” Sr. Helen said. “I thought, ‘what a great reward she’s getting in heaven for that.’”

If you would like to learn more about leaving a gift to VMCH in your Will, or make donation, call Sandra on 9926 2407 or visit: www.vmch.com.au