Kiwibank has doubled its donation to Mike King’s Gumboot Up New Zealand I AM HOPE fund to $100,000.
Kiwibank has already deposited $50,000 to the Gumboot Up New Zealand fundraising account, but Kiwibank CEO Steve Jurkovich says the New Zealand owned bank will do more.
Kiwibank recently partnered with the 2019 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Mike King to raise awareness of depression. The I AM HOPE Facebook profile frame hit its target of 50,000 in less than five days.
“It’s a clear message that this is something New Zealanders care deeply about,” Mr Jurkovich said.
From only three posts, the organic reach has been over two million and at 12noon today more than 185,000 users had uploaded the I AM HOPE frame.
"The message is getting through, and we’ve started a conversation in New Zealand to raise awareness. Ultimately, success is funding the work required to make a real difference, especially for our children. On top of the $50,000 already raised through the actions of Kiwis on Facebook, Kiwibank will donate a further $50,000 to Gumboot Up New Zealand.”
Mr Jurkovich said this is a cause that all New Zealand businesses can help with.
“This is something that we all feel strongly about. Mental health issues impact so many of us, our families and our friends. We encourage other businesses to also do what they can – it doesn’t have to be a big amount, but whatever they can donate, it will all help. Together, we can make a real difference,” Mr Jurkovich concluded.
Gumboot Friday aims to raise funds to help provide access to free and timely counselling services for Kiwi kids who need it. Kiwibank will be continuing their support of Gumboot Friday on April 5, 2019 by encouraging its staff to take part, through collecting on the day and by participating in activities right across New Zealand.
If people are wanting to act before April 5 they can donate to the Key to Life Give-a-little page. Key to Life is the umbrella trust for I AM HOPE and the Gumboot Friday fundraiser.
Media enquiries contact: Kiwibank External Communications Manager - 027 475 3521