Open homes for hospice care
Arohanui Hospice’s biggest biennial event, the Hearts and Homes tour, has again been declared a resounding success.
More than 1050 people bought tickets for the self-guided tour of 10 homes and a garden never before opened to the event, enjoying a taste of summer weather and helping to raise almost $100,000.
Communications and marketing co-ordinator Stephanie Gilchrist said as well as the home-owners who opened their properties to ticketholders, more than 350 volunteers managed the flow of visitors.
They also assisted at the Vintage Car Club venue, where eight market stalls were based, and where many visitors chose to have lunch.
‘‘The volunteers had a fantastic day and did an amazing job,’’ Gilchrist said.
‘‘The feedback we have received from ticket holders has been incredible, especially with the weather being absolutely stunning.’’
Gilchrist said as well as the volunteers, a huge number of sponsors were involved in making sure the event was run with no costs, only profits.
Ten floral art groups and individuals were involved in decorating each of the houses on display.
They included teams from Horowhenua, Feilding, Palmerston North and Marton, and Cottage Flowers, Floral Collaborative, Jilly Bud, The Christmas Heirloom Company, Hellebore Design and Sugar Charity.
There were 12 businesses involved in providing goods and services, another four contributing to the cost of tote bags, and 10 paying sponsors.
Proceeds from Hearts and Homes go toward the $3-millionplus annual community fundraising target needed to supplement the hospice’s health funding to ensure its additional services can be provided free to patients and families.