COMMONWEALTH Bank’s Tenterfield branch spent much of Friday clowning around for a good cause.
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The team went to lengths to show their support for clown doctors by dressing up in suitable attire to fundraise for the Humour Foundation.
It’s become an annual tradition that has been observed since the turn of the century when Commonwealth Bank got on board in 1999.
“I’ve been here since 2001 and we’ve done it for as long as I’ve worked here,” Tenterfield Commonwealth Bank Branch Manager Debbie Minns said.
“There wasn’t a customer who came in that didn’t walk out smiling.”
While she had a few odd looks out on Rouse St, Debbie said the branch were proud to support the cause.
“It’s really good to get in the clown outfits and support it.”
The team were able to raise just shy of $400 on the day Ms Minns said.
The unique scheme even attracted the helpful hands of a young supporter.
“Jade (Sargeant) wanted to come in and dress up and help her aunty,” Debbie said.
The organisation got off the ground in 1996 inspired by American physician and social activist Dr Patch Adams.
“Imagine being a child in hospital, away from the comfort of your home and all that is familiar, and feeling sad, anxious, frightened, lonely or in pain. This is where Clown Doctors can help,” an organisation spokesperson said.
“Many kids in hospital face a hard time. Clown Doctors address the psychosocial needs of the child in hospital in a unique way,” they said.
Debbie said the money raised helps to keep clown doctors in hospitals seven days a week.
Commonwealth Bank raised $275,000 nationally last year and Ms Minns said people can still drop by their branch and give a small donation.