Church backs fire victim appeal

Equippers Church on Glasgow St is accepting donations for the family of Ellen Newland, who died in the Durie Hill house fire on Tuesday.

Pastor James Roy said the church congregation had been given permission by Ellen Newland's fiance, Aaron Fletcher, to accept donations.

If people wish to give meals, they need to be packed in non-returnable containers and frozen, and can be dropped off to Muddy Waters on Putiki Drive.

Raewyn Hiroti is the contact person on 021 171 1919. Clothing and toys are being collected by Tanya Pohio on 021 242 4811.

Mr Roy has requested the clothing be new, for girls aged 7 and 12-14 years, and a boy's size XL.

Anyone who would like to make a cash donation can contact Lynne Ruscoe on 345 2051, or upstairs at the Equippers Church office at 172 Glasgow St. An account has been opened for donations to the family in the name of Equippers Church - 03 0791 0779320 000. Accountability processes are in place and all cash donation drop-offs will be receipted.

For all other inquiries, contact the family liaison, Colin Tyson-Tahana, on 0272 718 086.

Ellen Newland's funeral is today in the Lawn Chapel, Guyton St.