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Rising living costs, job insecurity and relationship issues are just some of the pressures facing families in the Mahurangi area this winter, forcing them to turn to services such as the Women’s Centre Rodney for support.
Centre manager Jo Nicholson says many of the families in need have, in the past, been “the givers” – the ones who have donated food and items to help others.
She says the centre is helping a lot of people who have good, full-time work, but who are still struggling to meet rental or mortgage payments, insurance and other household expenses.
“People across the board are tightening their belts and for many, they have never been in this position before,” she says.
As part of its annual Winter Warmer Appeal, the centre is accepting donations of winter pyjamas for adults and children, thermals, dressing gowns, socks, slippers, beanies, gloves, new hot water bottles, quilts and woollen blankets.
Because of the intimacy of the items, the centre asks that the donations be new or in excellent condition.
They are also asking people not to donate bedding, which is better directed to the Give A Kid a Blanket charity (local contacts listed above).
Last year, the Women’s Centre appeal helped around 50 local families.
Donations can be left at Harcourts in Warkworth or the Women’s Centre at 10 Morpeth Street, on weekdays between 9.30am and 2.30pm.
Nicholson says the centre welcomes enquiries from any women who are feeling a little uncertain or anxious about their future.
“We love having visitors pop in for a ‘cuppa and a chat’ even if they don’t need anything in particular. We are here if anyone feels lonely, anxious or isolated.”
Give A Kid a Blanket
The drop-off contacts in the area are:
Sawmill Brewery & Smoko Room, 1004 Leigh Road Matakana; Kay at Snells Beach 021 106 9927; and Lorna at Warkworth on 0210 37 67 88. Alternatively, contact the charity directly at https://giveakidablanket.co.nz/donate/#drop-off
