Bonfiglioli New Zealand was the Executive Sponsor of the 2021 Special Children’s Christmas Parties’ event in Auckland, as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to support the most vulnerable members of their community.
Christmas party brings cheer
“The Auckland Special Children’s Christmas Party was truly a day of joy for the children who attend, many of whom face tremendous struggles in their day-to-day lives and Bonfiglioli is honoured to play even a small part in helping them experience that joy,” says Neil Pollington, Bonfiglioli New Zealand Sales Manager.
Since 1998, nearly 10 000 children across the country are invited to attend the parties which are held in six different cities and are the largest event of its kind in New Zealand.
“Most of the charitable initiatives that Bonfiglioli supports are ongoing, because we feel that as a company, we have the responsibility to give back to the communities that we operate in and it’s important that large corporations use their position to help others wherever possible,” says Neil.
“The Auckland Special Children’s Christmas Party is particularly close to our hearts because it is a day when kids with challenging life or health circumstances get to be just that – kids – and have a happy day with friends, without being judged or made to feel different,” he adds.
The party was also a rare opportunity for parents and caregivers to relax and enjoy themselves and meet other adults in similar circumstances, helping them to feel supported and less alone.
Sponsorship from companies like Bonfiglioli New Zealand enables the event organisers to invite more children to experience this one-of-a-kind party.
Bringing the magic of Christmas home
“We are thrilled that our contribution helped bring the magic of Christmas to more children, as this day is often the highlight of their year,” Neil says.
The 2021 Auckland Special Children’s Christmas Party took place on the 17th of December at the Trusts Arena, Henderson. Nearly 2000 children with special needs or challenging life or health circumstances attended the event.
No detail was spared to help these deserving children feel that, for at least one day, they are the luckiest children in New Zealand. Highlights from past parties have included a petting zoo from the Auckland SPCA, a working Thomas the Tank Engine train ride, celebrity guest appearances and a much-loved visit by Santa Claus. Party attendees were invited to enter Santa’s Toy Cave where they got to choose up to three high-quality toys to take home with them.
“It’s a fantastic chance to make a direct difference in the lives of members of our community, and we are grateful to the Special Children’s Christmas Party organisers for giving us the opportunity to participate,” he concludes.
