Bay of Plenty invited to host Pink Ribbon Breakfasts throughout May

Bay of Plenty residents are being encouraged to gather with friends, whānau, and workmates this month to host or attend a Pink Ribbon Breakfast in support of Breast Cancer Foundation NZ (BCFNZ). The fundraiser is the foundation's largest annual event, connecting people over a shared meal to raise money for research, patient services, and early detection education.

Around 210 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year across the Bay of Plenty region, according to BCFNZ. Because the charity receives no government funding, the Pink Ribbon Breakfast is a critical source of income for its programmes. BCFNZ chief executive Ah-Leen Rayner said events do not need to be elaborate — a simple morning tea at home or a catch-up at a local café is perfectly fine.

"What's important is coming together, because every effort counts. Every dollar raised makes a massive difference," Rayner said. Pink Ribbon Breakfast Day is 21 May, though events can be held at any time during the month. People who register will receive a free host kit, and more information is available at pinkribbonbreakfast.co.nz.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).