Kiwis are again being challenged to go a whole month without alcohol to fundraise for some great causes during the second annual FebFast.
FebFast encourages people to take a break from alcohol during the shortest month of the year. Participants get sponsored by family and friends to raise money for a number of charities around the country that work with young people affected by alcohol.
FebFast coordinator Catherine Milburn said last year’s participants reported feeling healthier and fitter, saving money and losing weight.
But Milburn, whose day job is as an advisor for the New Zealand Drug Foundation that initiated FebFast in New Zealand, said the fundraising event was also about helping people in need.
“We Kiwis seem to have a national obsession with alcohol and, while many of us probably drink sensibly, there are a still lot of unfortunate victims of alcohol misuse. Often these are young people, which is why most of the charities FebFast has chosen to support focus on alcohol issues among youth.”
This year’s FebFast charities include the Wellington youth health service Evolve; the ADHD Association (which also provides substance abuse support); Rainbow Youth in Auckland; and addiction service provider CareNZ in Waikato.
She adds that joining FebFast doesn’t preclude people having a drink to celebrate a special occasion like a wedding or birthday as people can purchase a “time out” for a day to have a guilt free drink.
The Australian idea crossed the Tasman last year with almost one thousand Kiwis taking part in the first FebFast that raised $107,415 for youth alcohol and drug services.
To register or find out more information go to www.febfast.org.nz
