"But he hasn't been admitted at all this year. The bed Variety provided and the health makeover Healthy Homes Initiative gave us has a lot to do with that," says Annie.
The government's Healthy Homes Initiative was established to make the homes of low-income families with children warm and dry. Variety partnered with them for its Bed for Kids programme two years ago so they could reach the kids most in need, says Variety National Programmes Manager Emma Bolwell.
"Looking at everything we have been given, it feels like we won the lotto," says Annie, whose own respiratory problems have improved since her home got its health makeover.
"It's amazing for Patrick, who is a great little character ... such a clever boy, we are just so grateful and quite overwhelmed."
You can help save hundreds of disadvantaged Kiwi kids like Patrick from suffering through another harsh winter with a donation to Variety's Warm Hearts winter appeal.
Donate now
$39 will fund a warm blanket.
$80 will fund a bedding pack (duvet inner, sheets, duvet cover, pillow set, pillow).
$336 will fund a single bed (includes mattress, mattress protector and bedding pack).
$688 will fund bunks beds (includes mattresses, mattress protectors and bedding packs).
Thank you for making a difference. Your gift will help to bring joy and warmth to many more disadvantaged Kiwi kids this winter.
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