Sign In / Register
Hundreds of bags packed with essential items and gifted by generous locals have contributed to an incredible nationwide total, in an appeal that supports women in crisis, one handbag at a time.
A staggering 7489 bags were gifted nationwide for the Love Grace Handbag Appeal this year, which ran from Valentine’s Day, February 14, to International Women’s Day, March 8.
The Love Grace initiative was founded by Grace Millane’s family after the 22-year-old British backpacker was tragically murdered in Auckland in December 2018. Inspired by her passion for handbags, the appeal raises awareness and works towards an end to violence against women.
Residents from Mangawhai to Warkworth donated 200 bags, which Love Grace Warkworth coordinator, ANZ banking consultant Ricky Wrightwebb, says “is humbling and amazing.”
“Our goal was 200, and we achieved that; 200 beautiful handbags packed with all the essentials and more. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed. We hope these bags bring light to women in their dark places.”
Included in the tally were 60 bags donated to Mangawhai Lions from residents who coordinated the appeal for the area.
Ricky says her home soon became inundated with bags during her daily pick-ups from Warkworth’s official drop-off point, Kowhai Surgery.
“They were lining the couch, under the table and even filling my husband’s garage, God bless him, he was happy to get that back.”
Assisted by her ANZ colleagues, Ricky prepared the bags before their final destination at Hestia Rodney Women’s Refuge in Orewa.
“We check the bags to ensure they’re in good condition, contain all the essentials, and have no sharp objects. Each one is beautifully packed and finished with the ‘Love, Grace’ tag,” she says. “They were greatly received at the refuge.”
Now in her fourth year supporting the cause, Ricky used to work at ANZ Taupo branch, and through her suggestion, first brought the initiative to New Zealand.
She says the community’s response has been incredibly uplifting. Sharing a heartfelt message on Mangawhai’s social media platforms, she reflected on the overwhelming support.
“Everyone is supportive, I’ve never heard a single negative comment. I just wanted to share the love, to show what we’ve achieved. It really humbles me when I think about it. It’s something I absolutely love doing.”
