The local property industry and wider community came together in spectacular fashion on Wednesday, 22 July, for the Foster Hope Otago & Southland Pyjama Quiz Night, hosted by Wesley Jones Law.
For one evening, real estate professionals, mortgage advisers, insurance advisors, property managers, surveyors, tradespeople, and legal professionals swapped their business attire for pyjamas, all in support of a cause that makes a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children entering foster care.
The event brought together teams from across the region for a night of fun, friendship, and fundraising. Alongside a lively quiz competition, guests enjoyed raffles and a silent auction featuring an impressive range of generously donated prizes from local businesses. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, friendly rivalry, and a strong sense of community spirit.
While the competition certainly kept teams on their toes, the true focus of the evening was raising funds and awareness for Foster Hope. The organisation provides practical support, essential items, and care packs for children who are entering foster care, often during periods of significant uncertainty and upheaval.
Emily Wesley-Jones, event organiser, said the overwhelming support demonstrated the generosity that exists within both the property industry and the wider community.
“The response from the property industry and community was incredible. So many businesses and individuals donated prizes, sponsored the event, purchased raffle tickets, and turned up to support Foster Hope. It was wonderful to see people come together for such an important cause.
The work Juanita and all the Foster Hope volunteers do for children in our community is incredibly important and a cause that is very close to our entire team.”
The event followed the conclusion of Foster Hope’s Annual Winter Pyjama Drive, which saw community members donate new pyjamas and winter essentials for children and young people in care. Although the drive has wrapped up for another year, Foster Hope continues to welcome support and donations throughout the year to help meet ongoing needs.
Looking ahead, the organisation is already preparing for its annual Christmas Gift Drive, which will launch in the coming months. The initiative helps provide gifts and festive support to children in care, ensuring they feel remembered, valued, and supported during the holiday season.
The success of the Pyjama Quiz Night highlights what can be achieved when local businesses and community members unite behind a common purpose. While quiz teams competed for bragging rights on the night, the greatest impact will be felt by the children and families supported through Foster Hope’s vital work.
Ultimately, the event was a celebration of community, generosity, and compassion. It demonstrated how collective action can help provide comfort, dignity, and hope to children who need it most.
How You Can Support Foster Hope
Although the Winter Pyjama Drive has concluded, there are many ways to support Foster Hope throughout the year.
To learn more, make a donation, or find out about upcoming initiatives, visit www.fosterhope.org.nz or follow Foster Hope Otago/Southland on Facebook.
Together, we can continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of children entering care.
