Wellington Free Ambulance Fundraiser For Samoa 

Collectors decked out with festive leis are hitting the streets of Wellington this week for a serious cause – raising money for the people of Samoa affected by the recent tsunami.

Wellington Free Ambulance (WFA), in partnership with the Pacific Cooperation Foundation, is running a one-off street appeal on Wednesday 14th October with all proceeds going directly to the Samoan Government.

Volunteers from local Police and Fire, as well as members of the local Samoan community and several Wellington-based All Blacks, will assist with the collection.

Following the tsunami disaster in Samoa, WFA chairman Shaan Stevens was approached by All Black Ma’a Nonu who asked if the service could assist the people of Samoa.

“Although Wellington Free Ambulance primarily focuses on providing paramedic care to the greater Wellington community, we still have a responsibility to assist others outside of this area when their need is great and we are able to help,” Mr Stevens said.

This will be the only Wellington street appeal collection to be held in benefit of the tsunami disaster in Samoa. Collectors will be wearing floral leis and holding branded collection buckets to identify them as official collectors on the day.

Pacific Cooperation Foundation Chief Executive Meg Poutasi says that the tsunami has deeply affected New Zealanders because of their close relationships within the Pacific neighbourhood.

“The Samoa Tsunami Relief Fund has received overwhelming support from the public.  With rebuilding efforts now underway, the need in Samoa is still evident. This street appeal, which we are holding in partnership with the Wellington Free Ambulance, will continue the support of relief efforts.”

WFA fundraising manager James Craw said the decision to help was an easy one for the service.

“We have the resources and know-how to run a street appeal for the Pacific Cooperation Foundation and, of course, we are happy to help to raise funds for this worthy cause. We hope Wellingtonians do their bit and support the people of Samoa by making a donation.  100% of the funds raised goes to the Samoan government.”

Volunteers for the appeal are also needed, Mr Craw said.

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