Ukraine fundraiser proves community’s generous spirit

The weather turned out and the people turned up to make the recent fundraiser hosted by Ōmokoroa Community Church a roaring success.

“As a church we wanted to do something to help the people in Ukraine and it was decided a garage sale would be a great way to raise a good amount of funds. We wanted to involve the whole community as we knew there were many people who were keen to help Ukraine, but did not know how they could personally contribute. Despite having to delay the event initially, once we finally got the go ahead, it was so encouraging to see goods start to pour in from the very day the advertisement went out,” says Tanya, one of the event organisers.

We would like to take this opportunity to extend enormous thanks to all those who supported this special event. Many from our community got busy cleaning out their cupboards to donate items for sale, and many beautiful artworks by some very talented local artists were created especially for the event too. Volunteers gave up their time not only on the day, but during the week prior too, to sort goods, bake, set up the hall, man the tables, paint faces, brew coffee, cook sausages, and clean up after.

Of course, we are indebted to all those from the community who came along and generously donated over and above the value of asking price in many cases, just to be able to support the cause. It wouldn’t have been the success it was without the big-heartedness of so many from our local surrounds.

We’re not sure exactly how many turned up on the day, but over 200 sausages were grilled all sold which is evidence of a fantastic turnout. Special thanks also to the person who bought two sausages with a $50 note and insisted on no change! It is a wonderful privilege to be part of such a generous community and we are truly grateful to be able to forward these much needed funds on to those in need.

“The day of the event was perfect – a beautiful, fresh, sunny July day. It was so awesome to be part of this amazing event, surrounded by all the generosity and blessings of all the people involved.

One of the positives for me personally was not only the awesome amount that was raised, but the opportunity to meet and fellowship with the amazing people of this community.”

After a few late donations, $6,571.50 was raised in total. All proceeds will be sent directly to Barnabas Aid Fund and Mission without Borders, both credible organisations with people on the ground in Ukraine directly assisting those in the middle of the conflict in such desperate need. We hope that everyone involved will be abundantly blessed as they have blessed others.

Finally, congratulations to Grace Benton, aged 6, who won first prize for the kids’ colouring competition. Well done Grace.