Locals get behind St John appeal

AID: This week is St John appeal week and the organisation is hoping to raise $2 million. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Demand for St John's services is at an all-time high as the organisation asks the public to reach deep into their pockets and donate towards their $2 million goal.

Local schools, resthomes and childcare centres across the city are now taking to the streets for the St John appeal week (April 4-10) dressed in green to collect the much needed money.

Funds will be used for vital equipment such as ambulances and paramedic's first response kits.

St John chief executive Peter Bradley said demand for their services had never been greater.

"As a charity we rely on the generosity of the communities we serve. We never take their trust and support for granted."

Turitea childcare centre manager Helen said they decided to get behind the fundraising initiative because ambulances were available in an emergency at a moments' notice.

"I've never been in one but we've used them for the children. It's pretty good to see how fast they get here considering it's usually from one side of town to another."

Last year St John received 455,000 111 emergency calls, transported or treated 428,319 patients and travelled nearly 20 million kilometres

The organisation states it costs $181,981 to purchase a fully-equipped ambulance and more than $2700 to run it for a day.

An advanced life support defibrillator is worth about $40,000 and an ambulance stretcher costs $15,000.

Mr Bradley said it was vital to raise the money and purchase the most up-to-date equipment.

"Emergency health care has developed significantly in recent years and it's imperative St John continues to raise funds for the latest equipment and ambulances so we can provide quality care for our patients."

Donations can also be made online at www.stjohnappealc.o.nz or at ASB branches, Briscoes and Rebel Sport.

SUPPORTERS

PORSE Palmerston North

Turitea Childcare Centre

Parkland Kindergarten

All aBout Kidz

Ruahine Early Learning Centre

Awahou School

Woodlands Retirement Village

Karina Rest Home

Waireka Care Home