Two teams from Cessnock have entered the Beards of Hope campaign, which raises money for the pregnancy and infant loss support organisation Bears of Hope.

Team members will go without shaving throughout the winter to raise awareness of infant loss, and support bereaved dads through their grief.

Of the 17 teams taking part in Beards of Hope this year, the Cessnock teams – Savannah’s Boys and the Crumb Catchers – sit in first and second place on the fundraising ladder.

Both teams are supporting local families who have experienced the devastation of infant loss in the past 12 months.

Savannah’s Boys are growing their beards in memory of Savannah Mackenzie Relf, the daughter of Russell and Cat Relf, who was born sleeping on May 6 this year.

The Crumb Catchers are made up of family, friends and workmates of Anthony Bower and Jaye Hoelscher, who lost their son Ashton on July 31, 2017 – just three days after he was born with a rare developmental lung condition.

With 24 members, the Crumb Catchers are the biggest team to take part in Beards of Hope since it started in 2014.

Mr Bower and Ms Hoelscher said the support they have received from their family, friends and the local community was overwhelming.

“It’s a great opportunity for Anthony’s mates to band together in support and share some laughs during such a difficult loss,” Ms Hoelscher said.

With Ashton’s first birthday approaching, it will be a few tough months for the family, but they are looking forward to raising money, and sharing love and support for a cause that’s now very close to their hearts.

Bears Of Hope Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support vice-president and co-founder Toni Watson said it is amazing to have the support of the Crumb Catchers and Savannah’s Boys.

“The Cessnock community getting behind Beards Of Hope campaign assists Bears of Hope’s vision and mission in so many remarkable ways,” she said.

“It helps to break down the stigma attached to men grieving and needing help and also reduces the physical and emotional isolation associated with the loss of a baby.

“Bereaved dads are often an afterthought as the focus moves to the mother as she outwardly grieves.

“Not only will the community help raise awareness that dads grieve too, but the funds raised from the guys growing a beard helps us continue providing support services including counselling, men’s sport and support weekends, couple support weekends, support groups, allied health in-services, and community events.

“We are truly appreciative of the teams Crumb Catchers and Savannah’s Boys supporting their bereaved mates.”

The Crumb Catchers are planning a few fundraising events throughout the winter, including a raffle at the Caledonia Hotel every Tuesday in July (supported by Barry’s Meats), culminating in their ‘shave party’ at the hotel on Saturday, September 1.

Donations to any of the teams or participants can be made at beardsofhope.com.au.