Children’s cancer charity Redkite call for donations after COVID impact

As demand for its services surged in 2020, one of Australia’s leading cancer charities has been forced to turn to the public to help bridge the huge funding gap left by COVID-19.

One of Australia’s top children’s cancer charities has been forced to launch a national fundraising campaign after losses due to COVID-19.

Redkite, which provides financial and emotional support to families whose child has been diagnosed with cancer, has lost $1.3m in funding after being forced to cancel its flagship fundraising event.

To bridge the gap, Redkite has launched its first week-long national appeal — ‘$24FOR24’ — calling on all Aussies to donate $24 to help its families get through another 24 hours.

“The first 24 hours for a family whose child is diagnosed with cancer is the longest 24 hours of their life,” a spokeswoman for the charity said.

Swans players Harry Cunningham and Tom Papley at Bondi Beach with children including cancer survivor Benjamin Morris, 4 (centre). The Swans have supported Redkite for more than 20 years. Picture: Jonathan Ng

She said the funding gap comes as Redkite faces a surge in demand from families suffering financial stress and job losses increased stress levels due to the extra health risks the pandemic presented for children with cancer.

A report released earlier this year found Australia charities are facing a dire future with up to 200,000 jobs at risk as a result of falling revenue streams due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Most Australian charities were in lean financial positions before the pandemic, but lost revenue streams from goods and services and cancelled events have left many struggling, despite a surge in demand their services.

Click here to donate to Redkite 24for24 campaign

Originally published as Children’s cancer charity Redkite call for donations after COVID impact