A record $190,000 has been raised for a new hospice from the Hastings Karamu Rotary Cocktail Party held in July.
Hastings Karamu Rotary Cocktail Party lead Angus Thomson announced the final funds raised at a function with Karamu Rotary members and event sponsors last night in Hastings.
He said nearly doubling the previous record of $100,000, set in 2018 for charity Hawke’s Bay Community Fitness Centre Trust is a fantastic achievement and is due to the close connection many of our community has to Cranford Hospice.
“Many of us have had a family member, friend or colleague that has been cared for by Cranford. It has touched us all and that’s why we had a great turnout at the cocktail party and why people dug deep into their pockets for such a vital community service.”
The cocktail party and gala auction was held at Bostocks Winery, Ngatarawa, Bridge Pa in July.
Cranford Hospice Foundation Chairman Chris Tremain said everyone involved with Cranford including staff, volunteers and patients and their families are incredibly grateful for the continued support from dedicated fundraising events such as the Cocktail Party as well as donations, sponsorships and bequests.
“We are humbled by the support from our Hawke’s Bay community. The Karamu Rotary has dedicated their biggest fundraiser to Cranford Hospice this year and in 2023, and we are thrilled and overwhelmed by the record contribution.
Cranford Hospice is edging closer to the $15 million target to build a new hospice on 5.8 hectares of land donated by Joan Fernie Charitable Trust in Chesterhope Road, Pakowhai. So far $13.6m has been raised.
The new hospice is now at final design and costings stage. Building consent will be sought early next year with the target of a new hospice opening at the end of 2024.
Cranford invites the community to visit the idyllic site of the new hospice and experience the beauty of the established gardens at the Open Day being held from 10am-3pm this Sunday, 9th October.
