Project gathers momentum

The campaign to raise $3 million to build a cancer treatment unit at Whangarei Hospital is gathering momentum. It has now passed the $1.3 million mark, boosted recently by Api's Magic Miles, the Northland's BEST Expo and a third donation of $50,000 from Project Promise patron Wally Yovich.

There was more good news last week when BNZ staff sold their 150th brick for the 'BNZ Community Brick Wall' campaign. The $150,000 raised is now being included in the project's fundraising total.

Project Promise - the brainchild of the Northland Community Foundation - aims to raise $3 million to build a new cancer treatment unit for Northland based in Whangarei.

The BNZ launched its 'buy a brick' campaign in August last year, in support of the Northland Community Foundation, with the aim of raising $1 million by selling 1000 personalised bricks for $1000 apiece. The wall is planned for the reception area at the new cancer treatment unit.

"BNZ is a community bank and our staff are fully committed to supporting Project Promise," commercial partner (Whangarei) Geoff Grigg said.

"As well as selling the bricks BNZ stores have run best-dressed pig competitions, hosted a golf day, had internal fundraisers and sold donated items on Trade Me."

School students (including the senior council at Kaitaia College), sports clubs, retirees, farmers, businesses, other banks, families and churches were amongst those who had purchased bricks.

"People have fundraised, saved or pooled their money together to get a brick," Mr Grigg added.

"Some have been bought in memory of friends or family who lost their battle with cancer. Many who have donated want to remain anonymous."

Northland Community Foundation chairman Richard Ayton said BNZ's commitment to the project was outstanding.

"Not only are they out promoting the project, selling bricks and supporting fundraisers. They also assist us with financial fund advice and help us with our banking needs, which for a project this size aren't always straight-forward. They truly are a partner in the project," he said.

Support from the community had also been "incredible".

"We are so grateful for all the support we get from across Northland. It wasn't that long ago we were celebrating reaching $1 million, and here we are at another major milestone," he said.

Upcoming fundraisers include Saturday's Project Promise race day at Ruakaka, from midday. Free buses running from Whangarei. To reserve tickets ($35, which covers lunch) in the VIP area in the Bonecrusher Room contact Judy Knight, phone (09) 436-1334 or (021) 170-0273, email judz@xtra.co.nz

Staff at any branch of the BNZ will accept donations and/or provide details of the brick fund, while further information can be found at www.northlandcommunityfoundation.org.nz or www.facebook.com/ProjectPromiseNorthland