Explosions of pink have been occurring around Mid Canterbury over the last week as groups and businesses have hosted breakfasts, brunches, lunches, morning and afternoon teas and bake sales.
They have all been for the Breast Cancer Foundations NZ’s Pink Ribbon fundraiser.
The Rakaia Lions Club hosted its first pink ribbon brunch, attended by more than 50 people and raising more than $2000. President Tonya Williams said it was a real social time as people enjoyed each other’s company, great food and activities such as a quiz and raffles.
Rakaia’s Mark Hanrahan was the auctioneer of a number of mystery bottles, wrapped up and donated by businesses and Lions members.
‘‘His skills at extracting money from attendees who purchased the bottles was appreciated,’’ Williams said. ‘‘One person paid $50 for a bottle of zero alcohol beer, and another paid $30 for a bottle of homemade plum sauce.’’ ‘‘Pink Ribbon is a great cause to support because one in nine women are diagnosed with breast cancer in New Zealand each year along with 24 men,’’ Williams said.
By Monday the Pink Ribbon fundraiser had raised $2,202,349 nationwide. Over the last 10 days Pink Ribbon and two other fundraisers, Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge 2024 and the Tranz Alpine Scooter Safari, raised more than $4.5 million for cancer.
