The contribution comes from the organisation's staff donation scheme - a voluntary program that provides more than $60,000 to charities and community groups each year.

The initiative enables Newcastle Permanent employees to donate directly from their fortnightly salaries, then nominate and vote for charities to receive a portion of the funds every six months, making each donation all the more meaningful.

Newcastle Permanent member service officer Kylie Gould nominated Palliative Care NSW following her family's recent experience with the group's support services.

"Anyone who has had to contemplate transitioning their loved one into palliative care would understand how daunting and emotional the process can be," she said.

"The level of care and support my mum and I received when considering care options for my stepfather was incredible.

"And, it's heart-warming to be able to give back to the group that gave us immense comfort at such a difficult time.

"This donation makes me so proud to work for a customer-owned organisation.

"It's allows us, the staff, to give back to the communities that support us."

Palliative Care clinical nurse consultant Caroline Short said the service was overwhelmed by the big-heartedness of the Newcastle Permanent employees.

"This donation will allow us to purchase pressure-reliving recliner armchairs and care chairs on wheels, which can be loaned out to our patients free of charge," she explained.

"This equipment assists people in their choices to remain at home and be as independent as possible.

"On behalf of the Cessnock and Singleton Palliative Care Service, I'd like to thank Kylie, Newcastle Permanent staff and Palliative Care NSW for this generous donation and their ongoing support for our communities."

Newcastle Permanent's Community Assist Program has donated more than $800,000 since it began in 1997.

For more information about the initiative, visit www.newcastlepermanent.com.au/community

To learn further about Palliative Care NSW, go to www.palliativecare.org.au