Coles has marked a significant milestone in its fundraising efforts for children’s cancer support organisation, Redkite, with $40 million raised at Coles supermarkets and Coles Express stores since 2013.
Since then, Coles’ fundraising has enabled 81 per cent more Australian families to have their urgent support needs met during their child’s health crisis.
The partnership has enabled thousands of families and children affected by cancer to receive counselling in hospital and in the community. Essential household bills have been paid, music therapy has been provided in seven hospitals across five states, as well as 3,110 scholarships and grants being given.
Now, with the support of the Coles Group, Redkite is launching a national children’s counselling service to support the mental health of children with cancer, as well as their brothers and sisters.
Redkite has been delivering children’s counselling to families by request, but the launch of the new service means this vital children’s counselling can now be offered to all families affected by cancer.
Redkite CEO Monique Keighery said thanks to the long-term commitment of Coles Group, Redkite has been able to evolve its services to better respond to the needs of families.
“There is growing evidence that a health crisis like children’s cancer can have long-lasting mental health impacts, not only for the diagnosed child, but their siblings,” she said.
“I’m pleased to announce the launch of children’s counselling at the end of the month and establishing and expanding this critical service is a key priority.”
The service launches in early August, and like Redkite’s parent counselling, will be delivered via video link, depending on where the family lives and current COVID restrictions, or in person.
Coles Group, CEO, Steven Cain, said for the past eight years, five cents from the sale of every loaf of specially marked Coles Own Brand bread has been donated to Redkite, which accounts for well over half the total $40 million raised.
“We’d like to thank our customers and team for supporting Redkite and ensuring that we can help families who are going through one of the most stressful time of their lives,” he said.
“Whether it’s paying essential bills, providing counselling or helping with studies, Redkite has been there for families in need, and we are delighted that the $40 million raised through initiatives like the sale of Coles brand bread and customer donation cards has led to such valuable support.
“Our purpose at Coles is to sustainably feed all Australians to help them live healthier and happier lives. By launching its children’s counselling services nationally, Redkite can ensure the whole family receives the vital mental health support they need, including the siblings of children affected by cancer.”