Rotorua businesses step up for Daffodil Day

Waikato/Bay of Plenty Cancer Society's fundraising manager Catriona Findlay. Photo/File

The Rotorua business community has shown its generosity purchasing 793 bunches of fresh daffodils and contributing almost $28,000 to the Cancer Society's annual Daffodil Day appeal.

Waikato/Bay of Plenty Cancer Society's fundraising manager Catriona Findlay said in a press statement today that volunteers had spent two weeks and countless hours on the phones to local businesses.

"The pre-sell campaign highlighted that when it comes to supporting people living with cancer, Rotorua business people are always prepared to step up."

On August 23 volunteers will bunch the 25,500 stems needed to fill the orders. Around 263 bunches will be delivered that day by members from the Rotorua Vintage & Veteran Car Club who are volunteering their time and vehicles to assist with the campaign this year.

On August 24 and 25 Fastway Couriers will deliver the remaining 520 bunches.

"The success of Daffodil Day including the pre-sell campaign depends very much on the work of hundreds of volunteers across the region. Without them, Daffodil Day simply couldn't happen," said Miss Findlay.

"In addition, the Cancer Society receives tremendous support from schools and community fundraisers every year."

The month long Daffodil Day awareness campaign will culminate in the street collection on Friday August 26.

"Every donation received from the appeal will stay in the region and continue to help people affected by cancer in our local communities," said Miss Findlay.

The Cancer Society receives no direct government funding so relies on donations and fundraising to operate. Proceeds from Daffodil Day go towards funding vital cancer research, providing information, supportive care services and programmes for people with cancer, and health promotion programmes and information to reduce the risk of cancer through living a smoke free, sun smart, healthy lifestyle.

People can donate to the Cancer Society's Daffodil Day street appeal on Friday, August 26 or online at www.daffodilday.org.nz, text HOPE to 469 to donate $3, or visit any ANZ branch.