Every year, around 4,200 rangatahi are impacted by cancer in Aotearoa, whether through their own diagnosis or a diagnosis within their whānau. At Canteen Aotearoa, we are dedicated to creating safe spaces for rangatahi to connect and get a break from cancer.
Cancer affects everyone differently. That’s why Canteen provides a wide range of free support services to help rangatahi manage the specific challenges they’re dealing with. Thanks to our community, we can continue to provide vital services for our rangatahi. If you want to get more involved and take an active role in community fundraising support initiatives with Canteen, read on to discover how to create a positive impact today.
Support Options for Rangatahi & Whānau
Everyone deals with cancer differently, so we provide a range of free support services like therapy, in-person and online events, leadership development and more to help rangatahi better manage their specific challenges.
Our services and programmes are only possible with ongoing donations and support from the New Zealand community. Through our support sessions, peer events, camps and more, we have been able to help more than 800 rangatahi over the past year. Our work is important, and we want to continue providing exceptional services for these individuals and their families.
Finding Ways to Cope
We have seen firsthand what a difference targeted support makes to rangatahi and what a positive impact our free programmes have on their mental health. 87% of those who used our cancer support services found that their mental health improved, while 84% said they learned effective ways to deal with their problems.
As the only national charitable organisation in Aotearoa dedicated to providing tailored cancer support services for rangatahi aged 13-24, we rely heavily on donations and fundraisers to support our initiatives.
"Having a space to talk about my feelings made me feel valued and understood.”
Janine’s story
Janine’s cancer diagnosis came at a time when she was enjoying a new adventure of living on her own and starting a new job. Her life changed overnight after being diagnosed with a rare type of cancer called Osteosarcoma Bone Cancer. She was only 20 years old at the time and had no idea how challenging life would be when she first got sick. While her family and friends were around for her to talk to, she found it difficult not having support from people her age who understood exactly what she was going through.
That’s where Canteen came in. For many, some of the biggest impacts of cancer happen once treatment is over. Janine had to find her new normal, learn how to drive again and do things she once found easy. “Canteen was one of my support groups during treatment. They helped me feel like I wasn’t alone on this journey and created a safe space that enabled me to learn and grow.” She found a network of people who understood what she was going through and a safe space to connect and get advice on pushing through the tough times.
Read Janine’s full story here.
Community Fundraising Support for Cancer
Your fundraising efforts go a long way in allowing us to provide services that create positive impacts for rangatahi like Janine.
You can get involved in community fundraising support initiatives by joining Canteen, where you can actively participate and make a difference. Every dollar you raise goes directly to providing essential services like one-on-one counselling and access to resources that make rangatahi feel less alone. Here are a few ways to get involved with Canteen’s fundraising efforts.
ShopGood
Do you love online shopping and want to do some good at the same time? You can find a wide range of top-brand products on ShopGood, including jewellery, toys, kids' and baby, sports, outdoors and more. With every sale, ShopGood donates a portion to Canteen. This is an easy way to give back while enjoying an everyday retail experience. You can also share the website with your friends, family and colleagues to inspire more people to get involved.
Bandanna Day
Bandana Day is is our annual fundraising campaign. Get your community involved and raise money by selling bandanas at home, work or school. You can get extra creative and hold a fundraising event, selling baked goods and bandanas to show your support and encourage others to do the same.
Make A Difference Today
Be a voice for rangatahi and get involved with Canteen today! All community fundraising support ideas are welcome, so if you want to do something different, you can create your own fundraiser, join someone's existing fundraiser or donate directly to Canteen. Let’s work together to continue supporting rangatahi through challenging times and create spaces for them to connect with others and feel less alone.
