A Border fundraiser couldn't go ahead because of coronavirus restrictions, but community generosity saw $26,000 raised for six school projects anyway.
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Most people planning to attend Albury's Gold Cup Charity Luncheon didn't seek a refund for their $120 ticket and this combined with extra raffle sales allowed the financial target to be met.
Gold Cup Charity director Margot Macleod said 188 participants were expected at the March 19 luncheon, but increasing limits on social gatherings led the committee to cancel the annual event.
"It was definitely the right decision in hindsight, but when you were standing there, sort of not really 100 per cent sure of which way it was going to go, it was a really hard decision," she said.
"The majority were happy to leave their ticket money with us, which was fabulous.
"It just made such a difference."
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The major raffle was able to go ahead and received added support, with few tickets left unsold.
"I think once people realised the luncheon was not on, both people who were planning on attending and people who were just out in the community and realised our plight were buying books of raffle tickets pretty quickly," Mrs Macleod said.
A registered charitable group, Gold Cup Charity helps Border children with disabilities and special needs.
The 2020 proceeds will assist programs at Wewak Special School, Hume Public School, Lavington East Public School, Belvoir Special School, Aspect Riverina School and Kandeer School.
Items to be funded include sensory resources, communication aids, music department resources and a shade sail over a sandpit.
Mrs Macleod said committee members were thrilled their support for the children could continue.
"That's our major focus and I suppose we were all feeling a bit gut-wrenched that may not happen this year," she said.
"And so to turn that around, we're just absolutely delighted that we're going to be able to distribute those funds."
She thanked everyone for their contribution, especially the luncheon's nearly 100 donors.
"So many of them are regular, they're always so willing to give, just a really big thank-you to all of them," she said.
