For the parent’s of a sick child, overnight hospital stays are an experience generally fraught with angst. But thanks to proceeds raised from popular local event, Moree on a Plate, families and carers of hospitalised young ones will now be able to rest a little easier during their stay at The Moree District Hospital.
This year the committee decided to use it’s funds to purchase a state of the art lounge chair for the Moree Children’s Ward, a chair that doubles as a fold out bed so visitors to the hospital can try and get some rest whilst staying on site and close to their loved ones.
Committee member Margi Kirkby first flagged the idea after her own grandson was admitted to a coastal hospital earlier in the year.
“It was just such a lifesaver for his mother that she was able to be with him up at the hospital, it was a very stressful time for all, as it is for any hospitalised child, and the customised chair was such an easy, practical piece of equipment that made a huge impact.’
While Moree on a Plate is a not-for-profit organisation, with all funds raised used to hold the event, each year generous local businesses donate to a major MOP raffle, of which the proceeds are donated back to the community.
Moree on a Plate President, Bethany Kelly, said she was extremely proud to see the funding donated to such a meaningful cause, and with three young children of her own, said anything to help parents’ or carers’ during hospital stays was worthwhile.
Acting Health Service Manager, Sandra Hollands, relayed how pleased Moree Hospital was to accept the donation.
“We are amazed by the continued generosity of the community towards our local health service. Donations allow our patients to have those extra items of comfort not usually available”.
The Moree on a Plate Committee is busily organising next year’s event and has secured an exciting national cooking icon, soon to be announced, lined up as celebrity chef.
Next year’s event will be held Saturday, May 13 at The Moree Secondary College. For further details see www.moreeonaplate.com.au