Trust House gives $10k to cancer society

Deanna Clement, Trust House, left, Trust House CEO Allan Pollard, Cancer Society Wairarapa chair Wendy Morrison, Relay for Life Josie Savage, and Jeanine Gribbon, Cancer Society Wairarapa manager.

Trust House is backing a $10,000 donation to Cancer Society Wairarapa with a 36-strong team of employees, directors and families at this weekend's Relay for Life at Clareville Showgrounds, in honour of staff and family members affected by cancer.

It has also been collecting donations from customers at its Wairarapa businesses.

Chief executive Allan Pollard says it feels like Trust House has had more than its fair share of cancer.

"We're no fan of the big C around here. Far too many colleagues and their family members have had cancer, most of whom have survived it, thank goodness, and with stoicism.

"But we dearly miss those we've lost, like Neil Clement and Craig Cooper."

He said walking Relay for Life this year was a "no-brainer".

"It's great to be in a position to provide financial assistance to Cancer Society Wairarapa. They have helped so many Trust House people.

"We have a big team of staff walking this weekend, from our support office as well as from the outlets.

"I'd like to thank them and all our customers for their generosity."

One staff member for whom Relay for Life holds particular meaning is Deanna Clement. She is the daughter of Neil Clement, previous manager of Kuripuni Sports Bar & TAB, who died seven years ago.

Taking part in Relay for Life is an annual commitment from her family.