Cupcakes raise funds for kids with cancer
STRUBEN'S VALLEY – National Cupcake Day will take place on 26 September.
In 2011 Cupcakes of Hope set a world record for the most cupcakes on display – 21 000 which raised over R200 000.
Since then the event has grown with Cupcakes for Kids with Cancer now taking place across Gauteng and Cape Town.
Cupcakes of Hope co-ordinator Cathy Crause manages the National Cupcake Day at Clearwater Mall.
Crause said that more than anything, the day brings the community together.
This year the event is taking place at Clearwater Mall’s Food Court on 26 September at 8am.
Crause said they received over 5 000 cupcakes last year and were selling them until 7pm.
But the day is not just about selling cupcakes as a fundraiser, Crause explained how the money is used.
“Cupcakes of Hope either assists with medical bills or paying for transport so parents can visit their children in hospital or to pay for prosthetics. We even donated a wheelchair. We work very closely with Choc and Sunflower Fund even if it’s just a cash donation from us to them.”
Crause added that the day is also about raising awareness, “We try to talk to parents and we distribute pamphlets on detecting the early signs of childhood cancer.”
Anyone can get involved.
As she manages the Clearwater event, Crause has created a Facebook page where people can RSVP and pledge the number of cupcakes they would like to donate.
For the non-bakers, Crause has asked for donations of cupcake boxes or even simply cash on the day as every bit helps.
Crause will also have cupcake themed items for sale, such as aprons, table cloths, magnets and hair clips for anyone who doesn’t like eating cupcakes.
She added that the organisation is fortunate that many corporates have given their support.
“I have to commend Clearwater Mall. They give us the space for free and lend us the tables we need. We take over their boardroom to store cupcakes in the run up to the event. They even offer to help us set up. Mugg and Bean has also been fantastic. They always come through to check that we’re okay and they give the volunteers coffee vouchers for cups of coffee. It’s a little thing but it really makes a difference.”
