'Grandparents raising Grandchildren's', Virginia Pebbles left with
Papakura member Noeline Pilkington and some of the donated handmade quilts

Beautiful new patchwork quilts, knitting, clothing, toys and a great selection of second-hand linen were donated to the south Auckland branch of Grandparents raising Grandchildren by members of  Quota International of Papakura late last year. Virginia Pebbles, who is the South Auckland co-ordinator for the Trust was overwhelmed by the generosity to help the group and said, “ Bedding and clothing is always needed for the children when grandparents suddenly hear the children may be living with them for some time  and we’re extremely grateful for this fantastic donation at this time of the year.’

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Trust NZ provide support to Grandparents who are primary caregivers to grandchildren in difficult circumstances and assists to ensure fair treatment from the legal and child protection services in New Zealand, in order to stabilise and normalise the life of the children involved. They strive to make a difference for all grandchildren and grandparents who care about them. If you need support contact Virginia phone 256 1620.
Website address is www.raisinggrandchildren.org.nz

Quota members item at the Senior Citizens Concert

The Quota members also brought some Christmas cheer to senior citizens at the annual Senior Citizen Afternoon tea and Concert held at the Papakura East Presbyterian Church hall. More than 80 people were picked up from rest homes, pensioner flats and retirement villages and dropped off at the hall to enjoy entertainment by local singers, a dance group and  the Quota ladies’ item ‘Three little maids from school’. Everyone joined in with the Christmas Carols and popular old songs before having a sumptuous afternoon tea provided by the members. Everyone left with a pot of jam, miniature Christmas cake and a bag of shortbread. Quota President Irene Bickerton said this has become one of the most popular events of the year for the club members and the senior citizens. “As they receive their gifts they often ask us to make sure we invite them next year”.

The next community service project is on 8 March when guest speaker Noela Villas, from the New Zealand Spinal Cord Society will talk about Stem Cell Research.

For more information on this event phone Irene Bickerton 2699 6429.