Bridging the gap with rural New Zealand
OPINION: One thing I keep hearing from rural New Zealanders is the importance of relationships. Strong relationships don’t just happen - they take trust, consistency, and time.
The earthquake and aftershocks which began the early hours of Monday 14 November 2016 brought home the "resilience, compassion and camaraderie of Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) members and people living in rural communities," says newly elected RWNZ national president, Fiona Gower.
“In difficult times like these, we need to remember to look after ourselves, and ask for help if needed. Connect with your local community organisations such as RWNZ, we have branches throughout New Zealand and members are more than willing to lend a hand, or provide friendship and assistance where required."
Aftersocks
RWNZ are selling aftersocks as a fundraiser for people affected by the earthquake and recent adverse events. They make a fantastic Christmas present, and all funds raised will be donated to those in affected areas. Order online through the RWNZ shop.
In 2010, Rural Women New Zealand launched aftersocks as a fundraising initiative to support rebuilding Christchurch. New Zealand and the world showed tremendous support through this project, raising $130,000 for the Christchurch Mayoral Fund. RWNZ think there's a need to continue to help communities after an adverse event, such as earthquakes, flooding and drought, so we are promoting aftersocks™ as a way to fundraise and assist others.
Donate to RWNZ's Adverse Events Funds
The funds are used for emergency purposes and will also be available to support people in coming months. To donate to the fund please deposit money into:
RWNZ Bank Account: 06 0501-0778590-06 ref. earthquake. To access the fund Rural Women.
RWNZ Community Fund
A fund to provide help to persons or groups. To assist families in time of nature disaster, to assist the elderly, the young or any family or person for their particular need.
Eligibility criteria: Applications by RWNZ members only, but may be made on behalf of another person or group. Applications Considered: At each RWNZ Council meeting. In matters of urgency the President and Finance Chair in consultation may make an immediate grant. Value: Up to $1,000 per grant. Click here for full criteria and application details.
Scotlands Te Kiteroa Charitable Grant
Grants are primarily directed towards individuals, groups and organisations in country areas and rural towns. Grants are made for projects and activities in the following categories: children, care, elderly, community, conservation, counselling, education, up to a maximum grant of $1,500. Applications close: 18 December. Value: $1,500. Contact Rural Women for application form.
Federated Farmers NZ
Federated Farmers has reopened its Adverse Events Trust Fund to take donations to be spent on immediate emergency support for farms, including emergency supplies, farm equipment, essential tools and materials. Anyone who wants to make a donation can phone 0800 FARMING or bank online:
Bank: 06-0594-0028181-00, Reference: Earthquake.
North Canterbury Rural Support Trust
Donations to the RST will get to the farmers most in need.
Doug Archbold - RST Chairman, Bank Westpac: 03-0830-0259556-00:50
Givealittle - Earthquake Relief Fund Kaikoura & Surrounding Areas
Online donations: www.givealittle.co.nz/donate/cause/kaikourarelief
New Zealand Red Cross
Online donations: www.redcross.org.nz/donate/november-2016-earthquake-appeal
