10 February 2012
FebFast fundraising makes good progress

This year’s FebFast alcohol-free month has raised more than $45,000 after just over a week and is on track to match the amount raised last year, say the organisers.

Hundreds of people around New Zealand have given up drinking alcohol for all of February to raise money for four youth charities. FebFast is organised by the New Zealand Drug Foundation to support community organisations working with young people affected by drugs or alcohol.

The four recipients this year are: Evolve (Wellington), Rainbow Youth (Auckland), CareNZ (Waikato), and the ADHD Association (national).

FebFast Coordinator Catherine Milburn says she’s hearing lots of positive things about people’s experience of going alcohol-free.

“I'm sure some people are finding it quite hard to go without a drink for a month, especially if that’s something they usually do to wind down after a hard day or when socialising with friends, but many people are enjoying the chance to have a short break or try new non-alcoholic drinks.”

She thanked participants and their sponsors for supporting FebFast.

“This is very much a community event, with people roping in their friends and family to sponsor them for a month. As a community we benefit from the work that youth charities do, so it’s good to be able to show our support for them in a very practical way.”

People can still register to take part in FebFast at www.febfast.org.nz and can make donations throughout February and March via the website or a friend’s fundraising page. They can also text FebFast to 5338 to make an instant $3 donation to FebFast.

“Registrations don't end on the first of a February – you can join us at any time,” says Ms Milburn.

High profile ambassadors supporting FebFast 2012 include songwriter Maisey Rika, professional rugby player Scott Waldrom, Olympic speed skater Blake Skjellerup, comedian Guy Williams, performer Pinky Agnew, Wellington Mayor Celia Wade-Brown, ZM radio host Polly Gillespie, The Edge radio host Jay-Jay Feeney, Green Party Co-Leader Metiria Turei, National MP Jackie Blue, and Labour MP Iain Lees-Galloway.

ENDS

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