A Bay of Plenty woman diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year is encouraging others to spare two hours of their time to help support New Zealanders affected by the disease.

Lauren Todd is among the volunteers backing Breast Cancer Foundation NZ’s Pink Ribbon Street Appeal, which returns on October 16 and 17.

Organisers are seeking more volunteers across the Bay of Plenty to collect donations at supermarkets, shopping centres and community locations, a media release said.

The appeal is the foundation’s longest-running fundraiser and helps support the estimated 210 women diagnosed with breast cancer in the Bay of Plenty each year, as well as more than 3700 people nationwide.

For Todd, volunteering is personal after being diagnosed with breast cancer in April at the age of 48.

“I was supported by Breast Cancer Foundation NZ early on,” she said.

“I understand the value of donations first-hand and need to ‘pay it forward’ by helping to raise awareness and encourage generosity.”

Foundation chief executive Vanesa Sorenson said the impact of the appeal extended well beyond the collection sites.

“A pink bucket may look like a small thing, but the generosity behind it helps someone get trusted advice when breast cancer turns their life upside down,” she said.

“It helps communities learn about early detection and enables researchers to pursue better ways to diagnose and treat the disease.”

Sorenson said the organisation received no government funding and relied on community support to continue its work.

“We need people across Bay of Plenty to help fill the collection sites, and if you can spare two hours, we would love to have you with us.”

Funds raised through the Pink Ribbon Street Appeal help provide education programmes, support research and innovation, offer patient support services and advocate for better outcomes for people living with breast cancer.

People interested in volunteering can choose a collection location and shift time that suits them, with all materials and support provided. Registrations close at midday on October 15.

Those wanting to sign up can do so through the Pink Ribbon Street Appeal volunteer website.