The start of winter is fast approaching, and a Horowhenua community initiative called Winter-Wrap is being held at the Hope Centre in Kent St, Levin, on Saturday, June 12 to help local families source suitable free clothing for their children.
Organiser Tanya Moleta has been a social worker inthe Horowhenua area for the past four years and said, with recent increases in rent and the cost of living, many families are struggling to buy basic necessities including season appropriate clothes.
Moleta said this is the first time an event like this has been held in Levin and it will rely on community support by way of donations of good used or new items of clothing, including pyjamas, coats, jerseys, beanies, slippers to fit newborn to 18-year-olds.
"We understand times are getting tough, so let's help our precious tamariki stay warm this winter," said Moleta. "Children don't ask to be born into difficult family circumstances, so support and help from the local community is very much needed and appreciated."
She is also looking for bedding items like blankets and flannelette sheets because many families find it difficult to keep their houses heated during this time as well.
Moleta has approached online organisation The Period Place for the contribution of feminine hygiene products, and invites local businesses to consider donating toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo and other personal care items.
The community can drop items off to the Hope Centre in Kent St, Levin, between 9am and 2pm, Tuesday to Friday and on Sundays between 10am and 12pm until Queen's Birthday weekend.
All the donated goods are to be sorted by volunteers from local churches and the Hope Kete food charity as well as other social worker friends of Moleta's.
