Maovember has raced passed its fundraising goal just ten days into this year’s campaign. The initial plan to fund at least 25 cataract surgeries at 800 yuan per operation, which translates to 20,000 yuan, is in the rear-view mirror as donations stand at 28,654 yuan. That represents cash in hand and does not include outstanding money for Maovember pins already sold by bars, restaurants and individuals about town.

Events lead the way, with a pair last weekend significantly boosting the total. They included the Facial Hair Fun Fair on Sunday that raised 7548 yuan via Home Plate (1335), Jing-A (4613) and The Local (1600) and the maovember party on Friday at Paddy O’Shea’s that raised 3246 yuan. Combined with the funds raised at The Corner Melt pin launch party — 3060 yuan — the events total now sits at 13854 yuan.

Added to that are pin sales at 7100 yuan and donations at 7700 yuan, including four Super VIP donors who funded cataract surgery (800 yuan) for at least one person (if you want to donate directly see here).

Expect more announcements of events as well as new collages of our pin buyers — see The 500 MAO CLUB — over the next few days.

Maovember focuses on quirky events for good causes. Our 2022 partner is Library Project, which has furnished thousands of reading rooms in rural schools. Learn more about Maovember here. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.