Christchurch Casino is backing this year’s Bayleys Plate Up for a Purpose campaign, which raises money for the Christchurch City Mission’s Back to School programme.
Head Chef Richard Hingston said the campaign was about giving children purpose and pride at school. “It starts back at the basics for kids. If they have a purpose to go to school, then they have something in life that’s theirs. Whether it be a school bag or stationery, that’s their ownership. That’s why we want to support this. It’s local, its community based, and that’s where we come in.”
The casino is donating one dollar for every full priced main meal sold in the café throughout September. Hingston said the money would go directly to the Christchurch City Mission’s Back to School Programme.
“All the money is not bypassed anywhere. It goes straight to the Christchurch City Mission. Bayleys really get behind this campaign, so it’s a great cause.” Hingston said being part of community projects was personally rewarding.
In the kitchen: Chris Lynch with Christchurch Casino Head Chef Head Chef Richard Hingston
“I guess I’m the face for the casino, but it’s a feel-good factor. It’s really good to go out and see what charities are doing. I represent the team, but it’s good to see what the money is going towards.”
Hundreds of Canterbury children are at risk of starting the school year without the essentials, with families struggling to afford uniforms, shoes and stationery. Some children even avoid school altogether to escape the embarrassment of arriving unprepared.
To address the issue, the Christchurch City Mission has its Back to School Programme, providing children with the supplies they need. The programme is designed to give every child a fair start to their education and the opportunity for a brighter future.
Bayleys Principal Licensee, Pete Whalan, said the campaign had grown significantly since it began. “This is our seventh year since 2019, and Christchurch Casino CEO Brett Anderson and Richard have been supporters since day one.
“50 venues across Canterbury are taking part this September. We want people to go out with friends and family in springtime and know they are also supporting the Christchurch City Mission’s Back to School programme.”
“When you visit any of these venues and order the Bayleys Plate Up for a Purpose feature dish, a donation will be automatically made to support the Back to School Programme.”
Chris Lynch pretending to know what he’s doing in the Casino Kitchen.
He said the initiative was especially meaningful for families struggling with school costs. “Children should have the basics so they can do to school. Bayleys Plate Up for a Purpose is about giving kids what they need so they can have a good education.”
Whalan said people could support the campaign simply by dining out.
“Get out, book a table, and support the venues. You can also visit bayleysplateup.co.nz to see which venues are involved or to donate directly to the Christchurch City Mission.
