Baking for a Cause: Highlights from Bluestem Group’s Macmillan Coffee Morning

At Bluestem Group, we believe in supporting important causes while having a little fun along the way. That’s why, in celebration of Macmillan Cancer Support’s annual Coffee Morning fundraiser, we decided to put our own unique spin on the event by hosting “The Great Bluestem Bake Off” for the second year running.

It was a fun day that not only showcased our colleagues’ culinary talents but also helped raise essential funds for those living with cancer.

What is the Macmillan Coffee Morning?

The Macmillan Coffee Morning is the largest annual fundraiser organised by Macmillan Cancer Support. This meaningful event brings communities together to make a real difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

The tradition began in 1990 and has since united millions of people across the UK in a collective effort to support the cause. The funds raised go directly to supporting the more than 3 million people living with cancer in the UK. This provides essential services, from medical care and financial advice to emotional support for patients and their families.

Macmillan Cancer Support relies on voluntary donations for 98% of its funding, which makes events like The Coffee Morning essential for the charity’s continued work. In 2023 alone, Coffee Mornings across the UK raised an astonishing £18,041,302—enough to fund 288 Macmillan nurses for an entire year.

The Great Bluestem Bake Off

To put our own twist on the traditional Coffee Morning, we hosted the second ever “Great Bluestem Bake Off,” inspired by the beloved Great British Bake Off. Employees brought in their best baked goods to compete in three categories: No Bake, Traditional Cakes/Cupcakes, and Savoury. The entries were judged by Rebecca Batchelor, Group Manager, and Allan Glass, Statesman Sales Manager.

Here are our Best Baker Winners for 2024:

Star Baker & Savoury Bake: Nia Kirk

Traditional Cake/Cupcake: Grace Fovargue

No Bake: Bill Tumilty

After the judging and awards ceremony, we opened up the event for everyone to enjoy. Attendees could sample the dishes in exchange for a donation, either online or in cash, to support Macmillan Cancer Support. It was a fun way to raise money for a great cause!

How You Can Support Macmillan

There are many ways you can get involved and support Macmillan. Whether you’re looking to host your own Coffee Morning, make a donation, or explore other fundraising opportunities, every effort helps. Here’s how you can lend your support:

Register to host a Coffee Morning

One of the most impactful ways to support Macmillan is by hosting your own Coffee Morning. It’s a fun and easy way to bring people together for a great cause.

You can register for your Coffee Morning here.

Make a donation

If hosting isn’t for you, you can still make a big difference by donating directly to Macmillan. Your contribution will help fund essential services like nurses, who provide care and support to people living with cancer.

To make a donation, click here.

Explore other fundraising opportunities

From sponsored runs and marathons to bake sales and quiz nights, there are countless ways to raise money for Macmillan. You can take part in one of their organised events or create your own unique fundraiser.

For information on how to get started, visit Macmillan’s fundraising page.