Community raises $130,000 for Children's ED at Charity Auction and Movie Fundraiser

Over $130,000 was raised at a charity evening last night, with the funds going towards a new Children’s Emergency Department at Palmerston North Regional Hospital.

The event, which was hosted at Focal Point Cinema, included a charity auction and movie premiere and saw 100 people turn out to support the project.

Two major gifts, announced at the end of the evening, added to the $30,000 raised during the live auction. Sir Patrick Higgins and family pledged $50,000 to the project, followed by the Rotary Club of Awapuni pledging another $50,000.

Rotary Club of Awapuni Board Member, Fraser Bell, says the $50,000 donation continues the club’s long-standing support of the hospital’s Emergency Department. The Club recently funded both the whānau room and the children’s playroom in the waiting area.

“We’re thrilled to support another meaningful project that will benefit sick children and their families. This one was a no-brainer for the club.”

Palmerston North Hospital Foundation Board Member, Vicki Stewart, says that the project, set to cost $680,000, has now successfully raised $480,000, with a further $20,000 needed to begin construction by Christmas.

“We witnessed an incredible turnout for the charity auction, followed by a full house for the movie premiere of Taika Waititi’s new film ‘Next Goal Wins’.

“Some of the highlights at the auction included a very popular pounamu necklace, which was sold for $4,000, and a scaffolding services voucher from Scafit that sold for $5,000.

The Children’s ED, which will be located in Palmerston North Regional Hospital, will feature a separate waiting area for children and their whānau, four additional beds, a dedicated treatment room, and child-friendly décor, alongside specialised equipment, furniture, distraction and play equipment.

Stewart says it is a much-needed addition to the hospital and thanks to the support of the community, the project is a step closer to reality.

“We’re so thankful to everyone who showed up to our fundraising evening to help this worthwhile cause. We are still looking for $20,000 to begin construction, so if you would like to help us achieve our goal and make the Children’s ED a reality, please get in touch.

“There’s lots of ways you can help make a difference. You can donate via bank transfer or to our Givealittle page, or even organise your own fundraising event!”