When you say the words “charity fundraiser”, it sounds like a lot of organisation. Rewarding, sure, but a big commitment all the same. But what if you could do your bit for a good cause without the stress? Macmillan Coffee Morning is an excellent fundraising opportunity that anyone can get involved with, no matter how little time they have to spare.
As one in two people in the UK will develop some form of cancer, Macmillan Cancer Support is needed now more than ever. The charity is all about supporting those with cancer every step of the way. Through its support line and online chat, you can get reassurance about diagnosis and treatment from experienced cancer nurses, as well as expert tips on finances and accessing benefits from Macmillan’s trained and accredited welfare rights advisers. Macmillan even provides grants to help cover the essentials for those who need it – as well as helping those living with cancer to claim the benefits they are entitled to. And if it’s just a chat with someone who really gets it that you need, Macmillan Buddies are always there to listen. That’s not to mention advocacy work on behalf of the 3 million people living with cancer in the UK. Working to cut waiting times and supporting the cancer workforce are all in a day’s work for Macmillan.
Inspired to throw a Macmillan Coffee Morning of your own? Here’s our guide to making it a stress-free success.
Macmillan Coffee Morning can come to you
Don’t be fooled by the name, a Macmillan Coffee Morning can be whatever you make it. You can slot it into your schedule by turning your regular meetups with friends into a Macmillan special. You could host one at work and catch up with colleagues or clients. Part of a running group? Turn your 5K into a “5cake”. Work in a school? Set up a coffee and cake stall for parents to swing by on the school run. You could even host one at home with friends and family, or set up a virtual event that people can attend from wherever they are in the world. Macmillan even has a handy guide to help you plan your event, so don’t worry if you’re not sure where to start.
Baking isn’t essential
While cakes have become synonymous with a Macmillan Coffee Morning, there’s no need to don your apron if baking isn’t your thing. You could buy some tasty treats or even get in touch with local businesses to see if they’d be willing to donate some. You can also put your own spin on things – so if your friends are more likely to gather for some wine and cheese or a chai afternoon, you can do it in aid of Macmillan.
Macmillan’s Coffee Morning kit makes organising easy
The first Macmillan Coffee Morning was held nearly 35 years ago, which means the charity knows a thing or two about pulling off a successful event. That’s why Macmillan has compiled handy kits to make hosting your own Coffee Morning a breeze – including everything you need on the day. From bunting and cake flags (so people know what they’re eating), to fundraising QR codes and paying-in slips that make donating a doddle for you and your guests, it’s all in the kit. There’s also a “lite” version for those who may already have some decorations stashed away or who want to put their own spin on the Coffee Morning concept.
Even small donations make a big difference
If you’re feeling the pressure to raise a huge sum – don’t. Macmillan Coffee Morning is proof that there’s power in numbers. Last year, Macmillan Coffee Morning raised a whopping £18m in total. Even small amounts could have a big impact on the people with cancer who Macmillan supports. For example, £7 could pay for an experienced cancer nurse to put together a personalised care plan, £67 could allow Macmillan’s accredited welfare advisers to deal with a support line enquiry, and £200 could cover a Macmillan grant for a family affected by cancer who are struggling to make ends meet.
You can grab mugs, aprons and more from the Macmillan online shop
After downloading your kit and registering your event, you can go straight to the Macmillan online shop to stock up on Macmillan Coffee Morning plates, napkins, aprons, cake stands and decorations, with proceeds all going towards helping the charity continue its vital work. And if hosting a Macmillan Coffee Morning of your own is more than you can commit to this year, you could always buy a Macmillan Coffee Morning mug and head to your nearest local event.
Want to get involved? Sign up to host a Macmillan Coffee Morning at macmillan.org.uk/coffee-morning
Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SCO39907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland.
