The Commonwealth Bank branch in Hargreaves Mall had a fundraising day for the Clown Doctors on Friday with face-paint, a sausage sizzle, cake stall and staff dressed up in costumes.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The fundraising was in aid of the Clown Doctors, a non-for-profit organisation that visit sick children in hospitals, to brighten their day and bring laughter and smiles.
"The more funds we raise the more clown rounds can take place" said employee Julia Witherow.
Regional General Manager of Victoria and Tasmania, Michelle Winzer said that this event was a national initiative, happening in all commonwealth bank branches in Australia.
The day had all staff members dressed up as clowns with colourful face-paint on, and they encouraged customers to donate small change to help the cause.
"We've been supporting the clown doctors for more than 16 years and it's a cause our staff are very passionate about," said Bendigo CommBank Manager Gerry Bateman.
"We encourage local residents to come into the branch, share some laughs and make a donation"
The first of April will mark the official fundraising day for the Clown Doctors organisation, known as Smile Day.
They visit 22 major hospitals throughout Australia and play a significant role in the healing process with their humor therapy.
"We aim to share a dose of laughter with kids to help them through this difficult time. Laughter is scientifically proven to have a positive benefit on the immune system and reduce stress and pain," said Melinda Farrell, the CEO of the clown doctors.
For more than 16 years there has been a relationship between the CommBank staff and Clown Doctors with regular donations.
