Appeal nets $800,000 for sick kids

Waikato Hospital says the efforts of Countdown staff and suppliers and the health board will enable the purchase of vital equipment. Photo / APN

Children at Waikato Hospital will benefit from a cash injection of thousands of dollars thanks to a supermarket appeal.

The Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal has raised more than $800,000 for sick kids at children's hospitals throughout the country - and for Waikato that could mean monitors for premature babies and equipment for rural hospitals.

The money has been raised through fundraising events organised by the health board, Countdown staff and suppliers.

Waikato DHB chief executive Craig Climo and chief operating officer Jan Adams will receive the cheque today at a presentation at Te Rapa Countdown.

Ms Adams said as soon as they knew the extent of the public generosity they would prioritise their wishlist.

"We continue to be humbled by the public's generosity and the incredible spirit shown by Countdown staff in our communities. I know some of them have friends and family who have been or are in Waikato Hospital, and when they do this fundraising, it is very special for them."

The Waikids child and youth service at Waikato Hospital had received more than $410,000 in the past four years.

"Last year we received $103,000 which we were incredibly grateful for and it went towards buying some much-needed equipment in our Waikids children's wards."

They included an $18,000 hearing aid analyser for children and a portable video unit that allowed staff to video and take pictures from inside the throat.

On the Waikids wishlist for Christmas this year were monitors for the premature babies and children's wards and some equipment for children in Waikato DHB's rural hospitals.

The Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal has donated around $4.5 million in five years.

- Staff reporter