Lighting up lives with the gift of giving
Bill and Angela Thompson are the type of people who have spent most of their time giving to others, while asking for nothing in return.
The sheer joy they get from putting smiles on the faces of others is what motivates them to help those who are having a bit of a hard time.
On December 10 2016, the Thompsons flicked the switched on for their Christmas Lights at their villa at 109c Centennial Ave in Te Aroha, as part of their annual Christmas Lights Fundraising event.
The proceeds which were donated over four weeks by members of the community who went along to marvel at the Thompsons’ colourful Christmas Lights display, were raised for two families who have unwell children - the Kelseys and the Higgins families.
The Thompsons, through donations raised $800, as well as $200 in Te Aroha dollars, which they won for their float entry, a depiction of the Cinderella story at the Te Aroha Santa Parade last year.
They were able to give $500 to each family as well as a grocery parcel and small gift before Christmas.
Katarina Kelsey, whose daughter Olivia was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in 2014, said they were so grateful for the generous gift from the Thompsons.
Angela said the opening evening had intermittent rain but it
‘‘Huge thanks go to all those who made this year's event such a tremendous success.’’
didn’t deter the supporters who bravely sheltered under umbrellas seated in the garden, while listening to the wonderful sounds of music from voluntary artists and groups who entertained for the evening.
The entertainers were led by Zara Buckton, who was the recipi- ent of last year’s funds and was able to travel to Norfolk Island for a Country Music competition.
Only three days of the Christmas Lights display were cancelled due to heavy wind and rain, but the closing night’s entertainment was performed in glorious weather and every seat in the garden was taken.
‘‘Huge thanks go to all those who made this year’s event such a tremendous success,’’ Angela said.
‘‘For those who were unable to attend, there will be Christmas Lights and displays on again this year starting in December.’’