Wellington HIV/AIDS community prevention workers and volunteers raised over $20,000 for the New Zealand AIDS Foundation on World AIDS Day. Friday's street appeal saw the NZAF's Awhina Centre staff and volunteers gathering at 6AM to spend the day rattling buckets and giving out red ribbons on Wellington's busiest streets. “Some didn't leave until 11PM after a pub run,” says Daniel Eakins, manager of the centre. “There were about 70 people involved in raising awareness and money for people living with HIV and AIDS in New Zealand. As a result, we know at least $20,600 was raised. We can't yet provide an exact total because there are still a few buckets and tins that have yet to come in,” explains Eakins. “In addition to the money raised you couldn't walk down any street in central Wellington on Friday without seeing someone wearing a red ribbon!” Once again this year this event was organised by Don Barclay and Debbie Langley. “Debbie Ref: NZAF (m)
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Tuesday, 5th December 2006 - 12:00pm