15 April
Preparations are well underway for New Zealand’s first ‘relay for life’ type event run inside a prison, taking place next weekend at Spring Hill Corrections Facility in Waikato, and raising money for the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Cancer Society.
Prisoners and staff will take to the track around the field in the centre of the jail from 2.00pm on Friday 23 April. Survivors of cancer will open the event and prisoners from all units will have the chance to participate. Staff will then carry the baton through the night, from 8.30pm to 7.00am on Saturday morning when prisoners complete the final three hours of the relay.
“A lot of work has gone into setting this up. An all night event in a custodial environment with regimented security processes has unique challenges. But I’m very proud of staff taking it on themselves to organise it and raise money for a cause that affects everyone on the planet – whether they have had cancer themselves or someone close to them,” says Prison Manager Gavin Dalziel.
Mr Dalziel points out that the event isn’t only supported by staff. Prisoners are also playing a huge part in the day and have among themselves so far donated a huge $811.55.
“Prisoners employed in activities such as unit cleaning typically earn between 20 and 60 cents an hour and this money funds their phone cards, tobacco and snack foods from the prisoner canteen. They don’t have an excess of money, and even a biscuit can command a high price in prison, so over $800 is an exceptional commitment from them and goes to show the impact of cancer across our society.”
More than a week out from the event and the site is buzzing with preparation. Units are busy coming up with themes for their teams, the Pacific Island Staff Network are planning entertainment to run through the night, Corrections Inmate Employment is designing and making the baton which will be carried around the track and remembrance bags are being decorated by prisoners and staff in recognition of the loved ones they have lost. The bags will line the track helping to motivated tired legs to keep moving.
“Cancer affects everyone in the community, including prisoners and their families. An event like this is a small way we can recognise this effect, remember people we have lost and support the strength of people still fighting for their health – and all the while raising money for the work of the Cancer Society. I speak for everyone at the prison when I say we are only too pleased to help.”
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