THEY are the ‘win-win’ mangoes.
Win #1: You get a tray of delicious Bowen mangoes.
Win #2: Every tray Friends of Palliative Care (FOPC) sells in its Mango Fundraiser funds more support for Lower Hunter people with life-ending illnesses.
FOPC receives a percentage of the $29 from each tray sold. As of last week, 54 trays had been sold, but FOPC needs to sell another 10 to place an order before 25 October, the final date to purchase a seven-kilogram tray, via the group’s Facebook page.
Each tray will contain between 12 and 23 mangoes, depending on fruit size. The mangoes will also vary in ripeness.
FOPC Dungog volunteers Margaret Jones and Lyn Moseley will bring trays purchased by shire supporters back to Dungog after the load arrives in Maitland in late November or early December.
Those wishing to take advantage of this delivery option are asked to advise local co-ordinator Annette O’Neill on 0457 846 806 or email admin@dungogcarers.com.au with their name and address before purchase.
“We need to sell at least 64 trays, but we’d love to sell more than 100,” said Georgia Davies, a volunteer and FOPC executive committee member.
“Along with an annual walkathon in Maitland in May, this is one of our two main fundraisers of the year.
“The money raised buys special medical beds and equipment that allows palliative care patients to leave hospital.
“With the right bed and equipment, they can come home and pass away in familiar surroundings with their families around them.”
Run by 24 volunteers, FOPC covers the Dungog Shire and the Hunter Valley up to Singleton.
It currently assists 70 patients with a terminal illness.
In addition to the medical beds, the service hires out equipment to patients at cost, including a bedside table and chairs. Those living alone receive a Life Alarm.
The volunteers transport patients to and from medical appointments related to their treatment free of charge.
For patients under financial stress, FOPC also pays their pharmacy medication bill.
Another of FOPC’s initiatives is The Bucket List.
“We contribute to the cost of something a patient might want to experience before they pass away,” Georgie explained.
“One woman recently wanted to spend a weekend with her husband for their wedding anniversary. We gave them an Airbnb voucher so they could spend time together.”
Friends of Palliative Care relies on the community’s generosity, and new donors, sponsors, and volunteers are very welcome.
To learn more, call Dungog co-ordinator Annette O’Neill on 0457 846 806, or Georgia Davies in Maitland on 0478 120 530
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