Canteen needs help

CanTeen is on the hunt for volunteers to help sell bandannas and collect donations during its annual Bandanna Challenge later this year.

The annual appeal runs from September 13 to 29 with all funds raised helping to provide vital support, skills and tools for people aged 13 to 24 living with cancer.

The colourful bandannas have become the charity’s nationwide symbol since the appeal was first launched 15 years ago.

CanTeen marketing manager Kimberly Waters says the idea was initially triggered by bandannas worn by cancer patients undergoing treatment.

‘‘The bandanna

is a symbol of hope, care and support for young people living with cancer,’’ she says.

This year’s five bandanna designs are the collaborative works of CanTeen patient members and various famous Kiwis including All Black Dan Carter.

The charity receives no direct government funding so it relies heavily on volunteers taking to the streets each year with bandannas in hand.

To volunteer phone 0800 CANTEEN (or 226 8336).

Schools and businesses can also register to sell bandannas and organise events such as mufti days and head shaves at canteen.org.nz/ get-involved.