News South Africa

Auction raises almost R1 million for Woolworths charities

Last year leading female auctioneer Ariella Kuper raised R690 000 for charity through an auction at the inaugural gala dinner hosted by the then incoming CEO Ian Moir of Woolworths. So resounding was the amount that Moir stood up and matched the bid rand for rand, ensuring 3 500 children benefited through the Woolworths EduPlant and Heartbeat foundations.

These foundations are aimed to ensure children learn to grow vegetables in their schools providing key nutrition as well as the latter providing key health and community services to orphans and broken families, in an effort to recreate a sense of family security and try restore dignity.

Tutu photograph sold for R210 000

In the continuing tough economic environment, Woolworths again stood up to the test for those less fortunate. Hosted again at The Lookout in Granger Bay, Cape Town which was bedecked with the glamorous theme of a Venetian Ball, over 650 suppliers and guests attended an exceptional dinner event.

With just 12 items coming under Kuper's hammer, the crowd played their part and did not disappoint. A total auction value of R974 000 was raised within a mere 35 minutes, including a remarkable R210 000 for a photo of Desmond Tutu with his signature and handprints. Other notable items included box tickets with flights to the Rugby 7's in Hong Kong which secured R80 000 and an artwork by Alex Hamilton which raised R100 000.

With all contributions combined through the silent auction and tickets, Woolworths will be making a significant donation to their key foundations in excess of R1.4 million this year.

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