Christmas is just around the corner and children all over New Zealand are carefully writing out wish lists that include iPads and skateboards.
Yet 260,000 Kiwi kids would love nothing more than warm clothes and a good meal this Christmas.
Thousands of New Zealand children go to school cold andhungry each day as parents struggle to make ends meet. Simply getting to school and staying focussed can be a major challenge for children missing out on three meals a day and adequate clothing. The ramifications of living with childhood poverty extend into adulthood and job and relationship prospects.
On December 2 and 3, Kiwis all over New Zealand have the opportunity to play Santa to children living in poverty by participating in one of the Great Santa Runs. The first Santa Run took place in Auckland and, in a tradition spanning eight years, the event has since grown to embrace 18 locations around the country. Last year, more than 4000 runners and walkers took to the streets in vibrant red suits, raising over $40,000 for the KidsCan Charitable Trust.
The Trust was started in 2005 with the aim to get disadvantaged children through the school gates in a better position to learn. Programmes are currently operating in 500 low decile schools to provide basics such as food, clothing, healthcare and hygiene items.
KidsCan general manager marketing and fundraising Jan Clark is grateful for support at a difficult time of year: "The Santa Run is such a great event for people to get involved in. Every dollar raised helps us continue our work supporting Kiwi kids."
Entry is just $25 and each adult entrant is provided with a Santa suit (trousers for men, skirts for women) and children under 13 receive a Santa hat.
In keeping with the Christmas theme, past participants have included elves and reindeer. Spot prizes are awarded for the best dressed at each venue. The run is 2-3km long, so the events are fun and achievable for everybody.
