Butterfly stamps help vulnerable children to fly

MEDIA RELEASE
For immediate release
1 July 2010

Butterfly stamps help vulnerable children to fly

New Zealand Post continues its long tradition of supporting Children’s Health Camps in New Zealand with the issue of its 81st edition children’s health stamps on 7 July, reflecting the ability of every child to ‘fly’.

The annual stamps issue recognises the contribution of Children’s Health Camps to New Zealand society.

This year, three beautifully illustrated “butterfly” stamps reflect not only children’s fragility, but also their extraordinary ability to emerge from the most difficult conditions and flourish as strong, independent individuals.
Te Puna Whaiora Children’s Health Camps Chief Executive Dr Fiona Inkpen says the butterfly is a wonderful symbol of the potential in every child.

“Through our services, vulnerable children, like butterflies, transform themselves – benefiting from the services of a family-focused organisation that honours their strengths and talents,” Dr Inkpen said.

Children's Health Camps have operated in New Zealand for more than 82 years, and comprise seven sites throughout the country in Whangarei, Pakuranga, Gisborne, Rotorua, Otaki, Christchurch and Roxburgh.

The camps specialise in helping vulnerable children and families who are experiencing serious inequalities and are at risk of adverse health, education and welfare outcomes. Many have also suffered from years of trauma associated with family violence.

“We work with children and families to help them build new skills, their confidence as individuals and the stability of the family unit,” Dr Inkpen said. “The basic premise is that the health and wellbeing of the family is the starting point for restoring the spirit of hope to the children.”

Dr Inkpen said the money raised from the stamp sales will go towards continuing the work of Te Puna Whaiora Children’s Health Camps throughout New Zealand.
A 10 cent surcharge is added to the stamps to help fund the health camps. In 2009 New Zealand Post presented Te Puna Whaiora with more than $47,000 for Children’s Health Camps.
ENDS

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