Appeal a chance to help sick kids

You don’t have to be a nurse to help sick kids – that’s the message Countdown is sending New Zealanders ahead of this year’s Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal.

The appeal officially launched on August 6, and will begin with a series of local and national fundraising events organised by Countdown and local district health boards.

Now in its sixth year, the annual appeal has so far donated almost $5 million to 10 dedicated children’s wards throughout New Zealand.

All funds raised during the appeal period, from August 6 to October 28, go towards purchasing much-needed medical equipment for hospitals around New Zealand, as well as Kidz First Children’s Hospital in Auckland, home of the National Burns Centre.

Appeal chairwoman Ruth Krippner said more than 18,000 Countdown team members were behind the appeal and fundraising activities would be happening across the country.

‘‘The Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal is all about helping make things better for the kids,’’ Ms Krippner said. ‘‘We’re not all doctors or nurses but there are dozens of ways everyday New Zealanders can help provide much-needed medical support for children. We’re asking local communities across New Zealand to give generously to help make things better. We’ll be running sausage sizzles and fundraising events from gala dinners to a knit-a-thon for neonatal babies. We’ll also be collecting spare change and Eftpos donations at our checkouts across all 161 of our stores.’’

The Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal raffle also returns this year with a grand prize of a VW Golf car. Other activities around the country include a golf tournament, trivia night and a coast-to-coast cycling event.

Managing director of Countdown, Dave Chambers, said the funds raised through the appeal helped to purchase vital medical equipment at specialist children’s healthcare facilities.

‘‘Whether it’s a mobile telehealth unit linking up remote hospitals with specialist care in main centres, or simply an IV pole, we know that we can help make a difference. It’s a privilege to be associated with all of our hospital partners and we look forward to supporting them this year,’’ Mr Chambers said.

Countdown Online shoppers can also add a donation onto their shopping bill..