"Farmers should be so proud of the support they provide for people with intellectual disabilities. Giving a calf is a huge help and a generous donation, and we are very grateful."
Calves were sold for an average of $412 and 80 people joined the auction. The Paeroa sale started the 2016/17 season and is one of 19 stock sales throughout New Zealand, where donated calves are auctioned to raise money to support people with intellectual disabilities.
In the 32 years the scheme has been running, the IHC Calf & Rural Scheme has raised more than $30 million.
The scheme raises about $1 million each year for IHC. This money helps IHC provide essential information and support for people with intellectual disabilities and their families, advocacy services, friendship opportunities, and support for people to learn new skills and achieve goals.
The next fundraising event will be held at the Rangiuru sale near Te Puke on Wednesday, November 2 and in Frankton on Monday, November 7.
Background:
• IHC was founded in 1949 by a small group of parents who wanted equal treatment from the education and health systems for their children with intellectual disabilities.
• There are 5500 staff working to support 7000 people in services that include residential care, supported living, vocational support, respite care and New Zealand's largest non-government social housing provider.
• It advocates for human rights of all people with an intellectual disability at both a national and an international level.
• Raises money and awareness of the issues facing people with intellectual disabilities through charitable activities, including an extensive advocacy programme, a one-to-one volunteer programme and the country's largest specialist intellectual disability library.