WHEN it became clear that COVID-19 would take the fizz out of this year’s St Francis Hospice Champagne Breakfast, a loyal anchor sponsor decided they would not stand for it.
Klinicare Pharmacies came to the rescue, ensuring that the annual event, which is looked forward to with anticipation by some 400 patrons, would go on.
Although this year’s physical extravaganza had to be cancelled, Hospice decided to arrange an online version and Deon Schoeman, CEO of Klinicare, was quick to bring the sparkle back by donating the company’s usual sponsorship of R35 000.
Klinicare has sponsored the event for the past eight years.
Hospice executive director, Trevor Wiblin, said he was overwhelmed at the generosity displayed by Klinicare in spite of the difficult financial constraints faced by local businesses.
He also expressed his thanks to long-time loyal supporter, Susan Moser of Fischer’s Jewellers, who has each year provided valuable pieces of jewellery for silent auction.
This year is no exception and participants in the virtual event stand to snap up a Pandora bracelet worth R6 500.
Many of the guests who usually attend the breakfast have also come to the party by donating the price of a ticket and organising small get-togethers with friends and family. Videos and pictures will soon appear on the Hospice Facebook page.
Hospice resources manager, Nicky von Hoffmann, said anyone wishing to contribute to the fund-raising initiative could do so with a R185 donation, the usual asking price of a ticket.
For more information about the champagne breakfast or any other Hospice fund-raising initiatives, contact Nicky at 041 360 7070 or nicky@stfrancishospice.za.org.
