Charities a worthy focus for all of us

With all that is going on in the country at the moment, it is easy to overlook those in need.

Kiwis have been wrapped up with the victorious Rugby World Cup campaign, the upcoming elections, and for those of us in the Bay - the Rena disaster has consumed our thoughts and efforts for more than a month now, and rightly so.

The country is also still grappling the effects of a recession and this can make it even harder for the charities that rely on public support.

For the past six months, 17 building students from the Bay of Plenty Polytech have been building a house for charity while ticking off important course credits. The house was due to be auctioned off at the weekend with the proceeds going to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Unfortunately, a lack of interest meant the house was not sold.

What a shame for these hard-working students and the charity the proceeds were set to benefit.

There is still hope however. The house will still be marketed online by Vosper Realty and interested buyers can find out more on at websites of the polytechnic and Placemakers, which supported the build.

Another charitable event, which kicked off today, is the Give It Up campaign. For the next two weeks our hospice will be delivering large plastic bags to local businesses and encouraging staff to donate their old designer clothing and jewellery. Then on November 21, the public will be invited to the two Waipuna Hospice shops in town to pick up a bargain.

This is a great way for people to give their wardrobes a much needed spring clean as well as helping a very important cause.

Not all charities receive government funding and for those that do, it is never enough.

Most rely on the support of their communities and in tough times, they need our support more than ever.

With Christmas less than seven weeks away, many charities are facing their toughest time of the year so it is vital we support them. After all, you never know when you will be relying on them.