“Take care of what they hear. Take care of what they see. Take care of how they feel.
For as the children grow, so shall the shape of Aotearoa.”
Whakatauki -wise words from Dame Whina Cooper, the grandmother of our Trustee, Irenee Cooper.
Whaea Whina knew how important it is that we all cherish and support our children if we wish for a healthy and sustainable future. We can proudly share that in the last few years we have facilitated over 6000 connections every year to vulnerable tamariki in Te Tai Tokerau and Te Tairawhiti.
We also feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share in the lives of beautiful young people who are struggling with so many challenges across mental, physical, emotional and spiritual spheres. We have witnessed smiles, laughter, growth and awareness even in the midst of their pain, trauma and fears.
For the trust they have in us and the vulnerabilities they share, we are humbled. We are proud of their strength and resilience, and we are grateful to share their lives.
It weighs heavy on our heart that we can’t do more.
But together we can make a difference for a child – If it’s emergency support by way of food and bedding, clothing or Christmas memories, that’s helping for a bit. If it’s mentoring and supporting healthy social interaction, maybe we’re making a difference to their whole lives!
Every little thing matters.