Twenty-one charitable organisations and groups operating throughout the Waikato area have received funding from last year’s Cambridge Christmas Festival.
Representatives from most of the organisations that benefited from last year’s Cambridge Christmas Festival. With them are Cambridge Christmas Festival Society president Philippa D’Ath, third from left standing, and secretary Linda Sutherland, far right. Photo: Viv Posselt
A total of $33,511,67 was given out, with varying amounts going to each of the recipient organisations. The amount – raised at the festival in the Town Hall – is slightly down on last year’s record of $37,340.
The event has become a fixture on the local calendar for 22 years with the almost week-long festival showcasing work done by Cambridge Christmas Festival Society members throughout the year. The ornaments and gifts they make during weekly sessions throughout the year end up as gifts for sale, or decorations displayed on a range of themed Christmas trees. Adding to the festive environment are performances by a several choirs, Christmas teas and other entertainment.
Society members and representatives of the recipient charitable organisations gathered for a special tea last week. President Philippa D’Ath thanked the charities for the work they do in their communities, and expressed gratitude to the public for its ongoing support of the festival.
Recipient organisations this year are Cambridge Autumn Festival Trust, Sports Chaplaincy NZ, Cambridge Riding for the Disabled, Cambridge Community MenzShed, Ko Wai Au Trust, Octopus for a Preemie NZ, Children First Charitable Trust, Clothe Our Kids Waikato, Cambridge Lifeskills Trust, Cambridge Community House Trust, Cambridge Kids Playgroup, Hora Hora School, Cambridge Early Learning Centre, Childplayworks Charitable Trust, Cambridge Community Marae, Cambridge Toy Library, Leamington Playcentre, EquiPotential NZ, Leamington Croquet Club, Waikato Rivertones, and the Cambridge Cancer Support Group.
Enjoying the festival opening are Waipā deputy mayor Liz Stolwyk and her husband Andrew Reymer, left, and Jon and Janet Broadley. Photo: Viv Posselt
