The community-funded Hastings Cancer Trust has returned $60,000 to 14 groups involved in cancer services across the Hastings and Macleay region through its 2016 annual grants program.
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The presentations were made on November 9.
Coordinator Karen Hinton said the trust has now granted more than $810,000 in its 11 year history to front line support of local cancer patients, their clinicians and carers.
One of the standout projects this year is the Our Stories project which will bring the therapeutic effect of storytelling to those struggling with cancer, and to support fundraising for cancer services through the trust.
The grants are, Port Macquarie Hastings breast cancer support group for one year’s rent for the group’s meeting room and continuity of ongoing support for members; Mid North Coast Cancer Institute (MNCCI) Medical Oncology for 50% funding for an ECG machine to be used in emergencies for medical oncology chemotherapy treatment room; MNCCI Education Fund for ongoing professional education for the multidisciplinary team.
Wauchope District Memorial Hospital palliative care unit for ongoing professional palliative care education for the multidisciplinary team; Marketing & More, Our Stories project – telling your story can be therapeutic for those coming to terms with a crisis or nearing the end of life. Also can encourage others on the same journey and support fundraising for local cancer services.
Macleay Valley Home Hospice for storage shed fit out with racks, shelving and locks which will provide safe and easy access by hospice volunteers to the equipment loaned for use in the community for palliative care; Hastings Home Hospice, for five pressure cushions and shower stool to provide patient comfort and safety.
Port Macquarie Base Hospital Ward 3D medical assessment unit, for two recliner recovery chairs and footstools; Rotary Lodge for two six seat dining settings; Ward 1C at the base hospital for two recliner chairs; MNCCI Dietetics for a hand dynanometer; and, Hastings Palliative Care for a planned education day.
The trust relies on funds from the Hastings and Macleay community through donations or fundraising and does not receive any government funding, Mrs Hinton said.
“Government funding direct to our cancer services only goes so far and there is always more that can be done with the trustees pleased to meet needs unmet by government funding,” she said.
“All funds raised under the trust’s banner are distributed and remain in the local area.
“We are a volunteer-based group so every cent raised goes to helping this community. The trustees are all local people who volunteer their time while the Friends of the Hastings Cancer Trust give their time and energy as volunteers too.
“And we welcome any interest from new volunteers to join the friends to help fundraise,” she said.
Along with the presentations to groups, Macleay Valley Home Hospice was granted the 2016 Betty and John Allman Award. This is presented by the trustees to their choice of the project or initiative which is most strategic in delivering benefit to those battling cancer in the region.
“The award was created in recognition of the outstanding commitment of Betty Allman in fundraising for the Trust over ten years, and also honours her late husband John,” Mrs Hinton said.
For information on the Hastings Cancer Trust contact Karen Hinton via email hastingscancertrust@gmail.com or go to their website www.hastingscancertrust.org.au
