Community events

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH

The Winton Hospice Shop is getting involved in this year’s community Christmas Day lunch, providing a collection point for people to drop off donations of gifts and food for the luncheon.

Hospice shop manager, Maree Ronald says it is the first time that the store has been involved in an event of this nature.

‘‘I became involved when a customer, Teresa came to me with the idea that she had seen done elsewhere. She said she didn’t know how to go about organising something like this, so asked if I would do it.’’

The pair have decided to name the event a Community Christmas dinner and have enjoyed amazing support, with a small committee now formed to organise the event. The lunch will be held at the Presbyterian Church Hall at Noon on Christmas day, Maree says.

‘‘The church has very kindly donated the hall for us to use.’’

Maree would like to stress that this dinner is for ALL those who may find Christmas challenging, both young and aged alike.

‘‘There is absolutely no charge,’’ she says.

For those keen to attend, please RSVP to Maree on 027 7241 516 or 236 9934 or email mronald21@gmail.com by 5pm Friday, October 18.

WINTON HOSPICE SHOP FASHION PARADE

Maree Ronald, Winton Hospice Shop manager is organising a fundraising fashion parade, with all funds raised being donated to Hospice Southland.

The event will be held on Sunday, October 6 from 2pm at the Presbyterian Church Hall.

This is not the first time Maree has been involved in a fashion show.

‘‘I have been involved with organising a mini parade in the past, but nothing this size. I have been wanting to do something like this for a long time,’’ she says.

Maree has organised for approximately 12 models to take to the catwalk. Each will be modelling three outfits, along with jewellery, bags and shoes.

‘‘I have had amazing support from my volunteers stepping up to be models and I also have teenagers and young children taking part.’’

The shop will be open for about an hour after the event for people keen to purchase items that they have seen or just to have a look around the shop.

Tickets are $15 and include afternoon tea and entertainment. These will be available at the shop from next week and are limited to 200 tickets..

Maree would like to offer a huge thanks to all those who are supporting both events.

‘‘Without you, we couldn’t do what we do.’’