Governor General in Christchurch on Monday

Media Release
Friday 6 February 2004

Governor General in Christchurch on Monday

Around 200 guests will welcome the new Family Help Trust patron, Governor-General, Her Excellency Dame Silvia Cartwright, at a cocktail reception in Christchurch on Monday.

Trust chairman, Sally Thompson, says the function at Jade Software Corporation at 5.45pm will also see the launch of a major fundraising campaign, the announcement of a significant contribution from a community organisation and the naming of two Canterbury based, New Zealand sportspeople as the inaugural Family Help Trust Ambassadors.

"Monday evening is the start of a major step forward for Family Help Trust and the "at risk" children and families we support," she says.

Sally Thompson is not giving much away as far as who the new ambassadors are but says the entire Family Help Trust Team is thrilled to have such esteemed sportspeople join them.

"The huge increase in interest in what we do and the children we help is an endorsement for the success of our work - more importantly, there are families and children who now have a better chance at life because of the generosity of both organisations and individuals," says Sally Thompson.

ENDS

Note: Peter Townsend (CEO - Canterbury Employers Chamber of Commerce), is the master of ceremonies.

Upon accepting her role as Patron late last year, in a statement from Government House, Dame Silvia said;

"In its short history, the Family Help Trust has become a major force in the area of early intervention for the benefit of children growing up in dysfunctional families.

The Family Help Trust recognises the problem of intergenerational family dysfunction, thus contributing towards long-term solutions for at-risk youths. I am delighted to be able to support this important and worthwhile organisation."

Media Invitation: You are invited to attend the Cocktail Evening, Monday 9th February at Jade Software Corporation. Guests will begin arriving at 5.45pm, the Governor General will be officially welcomed shortly afterwards, make a speech and depart at around 7pm.

Bryan Andrews will announce the new fundraising initiative. Also, the Family Help Trust Ambassadors will be welcomed and are available for interviews.

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