Digital poppy appeal to support RSA

SUPPORT: Donate to the RSA Poppy Appeal by buying a digital poppy.

NZME., owner of the Wairarapa Times-Age, NZ Herald, Herald on Sunday, NewstalkZB and GrabOne is supporting the Returned Services' Association (RSA) by launching a digital poppy that is available online.

From today until Anzac Day, people will be able to donate online at the website www.pinapoppy.co.nz or via text to receive a virtual poppy to share on social media, or to save to their desktops and devices.

NZME. hopes to raise $100,000 to mark the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings with all proceeds going to the RSA Poppy Appeal.

The Pin a Poppy Appeal campaign has received a significant start with a $20,000 donation from NZME. to support the work of the RSA.

RSA chief executive David Moger said, "We are excited by the Pin a Poppy Appeal initiative as it's a great new way for people to contribute to supporting those who have served and sacrificed.

"It would be wonderful to see poppies blooming right across the web over the next week."

RSA national president BJ Clark, who is on his way to Gallipoli, added: "This initiative means Kiwis around the world can make a donation and display an RSA Poppy as a symbol of remembrance. We honour the memory of those who have gone before by caring for those still with us."

Donations through the Pin a Poppy Appeal will go into the national Poppy Fund, which is used by RSAs across New Zealand to assist veterans, former and current servicepeople and their families in need.

Assistance can range from grants for those in financial difficulty, to helping with practical tasks, supplementing healthcare costs, counselling, providing meals on wheels and home maintenance, or simply offering friendship and support in times of need or illness.

Visit www.pinapoppy.co.nz from today for further details and to donate.