Herald on Sunday editorial: Thank you for all the jammies in chilly June

Everyone who contributed felt for children in under-heated, probably damp houses in this cold weather. At least we could give them good, fluffy pyjamas and onesies. Photo / Thinkstock

Editorial

Your generosity is warmly appreciated, and warmly is the operative word. Thousands of children are going to bed warmer this winter thanks to your response to our "Jammies in June" appeal.

Just on 9000 pairs of pyjamas have been donated for the Middlemore Foundation to distribute to children in the Counties-Manukau health district and $55,000 in cash — well over the target — for the foundation to buy many more pairs, plus vests, bedsocks and blankets for poor families in need.

Just about every day during June sacks of warm bedwear came into the foundation from schools, churches, sports clubs, service clubs and many individuals.

A rollerskating club closing down donated the $2000 left in its coffers.

Everyone who contributed felt for children in under-heated, probably damp houses in this cold weather. At least we could give them good, fluffy pyjamas and onesies. The kids would not only be warmer, they would love wearing them. All kids love bright new pyjamas.

We are grateful to the celebrities who helped us publicise the appeal.

Warriors Manu Vatuvei and Glen Fisiiahi signed on for a pyjama party at Middlemore's Kidz First Hospital. Bachelor NZ contestant Amanda Macdonald told us that like most 3-year-olds, her twins Daisy and Daniel go to bed in flannelette pyjamas with onesies over top. When they outgrow them she passes them on to the less fortunate.

Donations to the Middlemore Foundation this year eclipsed the 5400 garments it distributed last year.

This is the third year it has run "Jammies in June" and this year's response is the best yet. It was the first year the Herald on Sunday has helped the appeal and the response from you, the readers, has made the difference.

In the paper today the foundation expresses its gratitude to all those who gave. Spokeswoman Ankita Luthra says many of the clubs, schools and other organisations found the campaign so "easy, tangible and fun" they have already put themselves on a mailing list for next year.

The foundation has done well to identify a simple need that everyone can recognise, even if it was a surprise to the better off that some children lack such a basic item. The distributors make sure the pyjamas go to the needy as quickly as possible, and your effort, whether shopping for the garments or donating cash, has made it all possible.

Hospital staff and social workers wish donors could see the children's eyes light up when they are given their PJs. You did it for them and you did this paper proud. Thank you.