Southland Stags and Hawthorndale Care Village Unite to Tackle Dementia Care in Southland

“The Southland Stags proudly announce their new jersey charity partner for 2023, The Hawthorndale Care Village,” revealed Matt Saunders, Director of Rugby.

This significant partnership aims to raise awareness and provide support for dementia care in Southland. As part of the collaboration, the upper back of all playing jerseys and replicas throughout the upcoming season will prominently feature The Hawthorndale Care Village logo. The initiative also includes impactful awareness campaigns and donation drives, with enthusiastic support from mutual supporters such as SBS Bank, ILT, and numerous businesses and volunteers from the rugby community.

The Hawthorndale Care Village, a specialist dementia and aged care facility currently under construction, is dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to individuals and families affected by dementia in the Southland region. The partnership with the Southland Stags signifies a united effort to address the pressing issue of cognitive health among former rugby players and serves as a way for the rugby community to give back to the region.

By featuring the Hawthorndale Care Village logo prominently on the upper back of all playing jerseys and replicas, the Southland Stags demonstrate their unwavering commitment to supporting dementia care and raising awareness.

Helen Robinson, General Manager of Hawthorndale Care Village, expressed her excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to partner with the Southland Stags in this meaningful collaboration. Together, we can bring greater attention to the critical issue of dementia care and provide support to those affected by this condition. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to making a positive impact in the Southland community.”

Paddy O’Brien, a director on the Hawthorndale Care Village Board, also commented on the partnership, saying, “The collaboration between The Hawthorndale Care Village and the Southland Stags is a remarkable initiative that emphasizes the importance of unity in addressing a community need. By raising awareness and encouraging donations, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by dementia.”

The Hawthorndale Care Village project, with a total cost of $35 million, represents a significant commitment to providing exceptional care for older people and individuals with dementia.

As the construction progresses, there will be a further push to secure additional funding for outfitting the homes. This collaboration with the Southland Stags will play a vital role in enhancing the village’s capabilities to offer specialized care and support.

Steve Mitchell, General Manager of Rugby Southland, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “The Southland Stags are proud to join forces with The Hawthorndale Care Village to support this crucial cause. Through the power of rugby, we can raise awareness and generate support for dementia care in our community. We hope that this partnership inspires other organizations to come forward and make a meaningful impact.”

Matt Saunders, Director of Rugby for the Southland Stags, echoed these sentiments, saying, “As a rugby team, we recognize our responsibility to support the wider community. Our partnership with The Hawthorndale Care Village reflects our commitment to cognitive and brain health advocacy and our dedication to giving back. We are honored to contribute to raising awareness for dementia care in Southland.”