Red Cross Urges Kiwis to Come Together to End a Crisis

Red Cross Urges Kiwis to Come Together to End a Crisis

May is a crucial time for New Zealand Red Cross as it celebrates not only its annual appeal but also 150 years of the Red Cross Movement.

Wednesday 8 May is World Red Cross Red Crescent Day, and is also the birthday of the founder of the Red Cross Movement, Swiss businessman and social activist Henry Dunant. Mr Dunant formed the world’s oldest humanitarian organisation, the International Committee of the Red Cross in February 1863.

Henry Dunant’s birthday coincides with New Zealand Red Cross’ annual appeal week from 6-12 May, during which all New Zealanders are being urged to help end a crisis.

A crisis comes in many shapes and sizes and does not discriminate. New Zealand Red Cross helps vulnerable people everywhere, everyday – working towards ending a crisis for countless people by providing hot meals, a safe drive to a medical appointment, and assisting communities and individuals affected by devastating emergencies and conflicts in New Zealand and across the world.

New Zealand Red Cross national president Dr Jenny McMahon says demand for the charity’s services is steadily increasing and New Zealand Red Cross remains committed to helping people in their hour of greatest need.

“We gave nearly 65,000 New Zealanders first aid training last year, delivered 647,000 meals on wheels, helped resettle more than 800 former refugees, distributed 4,500 winter warmer packs to people in need in Christchurch, and put more than 40 international aid workers into the field where they are providing hands on help to the most vulnerable,” Dr McMahon says.

“Whether we are teaching a young child life saving first aid skills, reuniting a young refugee with his family or supporting our elderly neighbours by delivering hot meals to their door, we know the practical help we provide makes a huge difference. We need your support so please give generously.”
For ideas on how to get involved, how to donate, or to read about some of the people your money has helped, go to https://www.redcross.org.nz/i-see-red/

And for information on appeal week activities in your specific area please contact area managers on 0800 733 276 or via your local service centre

https://www.redcross.org.nz/about-us/service-centres/

There are several ways to donate to the New Zealand Red Cross annual appeal:

Make a secure online donation at https://www.redcross.org.nz/

Call 0800 RED CROSS (0800 733 276)

Send your cheque to New Zealand Red Cross, Freepost 119963, PO Box 12140, Thorndon, Wellington 6144

ENDS

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