Aruma’s Biggest Morning Tea

Last week, Aruma participants, families and staff from across Charlestown, NSW, came together to put on one of the best Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea celebrations. There were tasty treats, fabulous raffle prizes, and smiles galore as everyone united to raise funds for those affected by cancer.

“We ended up raising $274, which was a fantastic outcome! We had some wonderful prizes to give away thanks to the team, and they were very popular,” said Service Lead Community, Adam Imber.

For the Cancer Council, every contribution makes a significant difference. For instance, a donation of just $150 can provide two people recently diagnosed with cancer invaluable one-on-one support, and connect them to a trained Cancer Connect volunteer.

Over the last few months, a group of Charlestown participants in the ‘Art and Bake’ group helped prepare some exceptional pieces for the raffle by making extra art in their weekly sessions. They also catered the event by preparing classic favourites like sandwiches, sausage rolls, cupcakes, scones, and bikkies for the day.

The idea to host a Biggest Morning Tea came from the team wanting to support a cause that touches many people’s lives. According to the Cancer Council, “almost 1 in 2 Australians will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85.”

“We used to be very big on fundraising and supported Daffodil Day for several years. We also thought this was a great way to get back into hosting events. Having the families of our participants join us was a lovely touch,” continued Adam.

Throughout the day, there were activities like bingo and trivia, and the participants gave their new interactive smartboard a workout with some digital games. The families loved it, and everyone agreed it was a day for the history books.

“It was a massive team effort but so worth it. All our staff and participants were involved with setting up and preparing for the day. I’d also love to give a special shoutout to our Support Worker, Chantel Moffat, who really took the lead in registering us with the Cancer Council and getting the event off the ground,” said Adam.

The team has yet to decide on the next event they will host, but we know it will be great!