Woolworths Appeal kicks off to help sick kids

The 2001 Woolworths Appeal to assist The Children's Hospital at Westmead kicks off on Monday 6 August with the aim of raising over $500,000. Over the past six years this annual appeal has raised in excess of $5 million for the treatment of sick children at Australia's leading paediatric institution.

Woolworths staff work extremely hard each year to raise money during the appeal through the sale of Bandaged Bear merchandise such as key rings, car seat belt covers and pens. Collection tins are also placed in Woolworths stores throughout the state and individual stores organise fundraisers such as head shaves, car washes, cake stalls, sausage sizzles and raffles.

Bandaged Bear, the life-sized mascot of The Children's Hospital at Westmead will also be making a series of special in-store visits throughout NSW over the coming months to share some of his famous "big bear hugs".

Twenty children, who are past and present patients of The Children's Hospital at Westmead, will act as the face of the Appeal, featuring on display material in Woolworths stores across the state. These young ambassadors will be our 2001 Hospital Heroes; heroic for the challenges they have already faced in their young lives.

"At Woolworths we all derive great pride and satisfaction in the knowledge that our fundraising efforts continue to help seriously ill children regain their health and go on to lead fulfilling lives", Mr Bruce Buesnel, Chairman of Woolworths Appeal for Sick Children said.

"The Children's Hospital at Westmead cares for sick children from across NSW and beyond. We are renowned for the way we combine the very best standards of care in an atmosphere that cares for children and parents as real people with individual needs", said Professor Kim Oates, Chief Executive of The Children's Hospital at Westmead.

"The Woolworths team is passionate about helping us to provide the highest standards of care, services and equipment for our young patients. We applaud Woolworths for its tremendous drive and initiative. Together we can work to make life just a little easier for sick kids", said Professor Oates.

You can be part of the 2001 Woolworths Appeal by looking out for displays and activities held in your local Woolworths store through to early October.

All media are welcome to attend the launch of the Woolworths Appeal to be held at The Children's Hospital at Westmead on Tuesday 31 July at 11am. Representatives from Woolworths will be in attendance, along with the team of Hospital Heroes. Images of the Hospital Heroes are also available upon request.

For all enquiries, please contact:

Nicole Jones
Fundraising
The Children's Hospital at Westmead
Ph: 61 2 9845 3470
E-mail: nicolej2@chw.edu.au