Wear a wig and help a child

The Child Cancer Foundation is asking Kiwis to don a wig on Wednesday, September 13 to support tamariki with cancer and their families.

At least three children a week are diagnosed with cancer every week. The treatment these children undergo often means they need to brave the world with no hair.

Wig Wednesday is a fun day where people can support these kids by wearing a wig, styling a funky hairdo or shaving their head while raising money for the foundation.

“So far, we have had hundreds of incredible Kiwi schools, workplaces and community groups sign up to get wiggy all over the country,” the foundation’s chief executive Monica Briggs says.

“We are so grateful for their dedication to raising money for these whānau during what has been a difficult year for many Kiwis.”

The impact of Cyclone Gabrielle and the cost-of-living crisis has not only caused an increased need for the foundation’s support services throughout 2023, but it has also affected its ability to raise vital funds to provide these services.

“We have seen families of all backgrounds pushed into severe stress and hardship this year as a result of their child’s cancer diagnosis.

“This is where New Zealanders’ generosity becomes a real lifeline for these families. Together, we can ensure they are supported through one of the toughest times in their lives.”

The foundation needs to raise over $200,000 in urgent funds this Wig Wednesday to provide emotional, financial and practical support to tamariki with cancer and their whānau.

The organisation doesn’t receive any direct government funding, so relies on the generosity of Kiwis to help these families.

“Every dollar raised for Wig Wednesday makes a difference,” Briggs says.

“Please help us raise vital funds and awareness by wearing a wig this September 13 or making a donation to help Kiwi families impacted by childhood cancer.”

Sign up for Wig Wednesday or donate today at wigwednesday.org.nz.