Hi I'm  the new Plunket community support co-ordinator in the Rodney area. I'm here toadvocate and provide support for services that can benefit our children andempower families. Part of this is ensuring we have funds to secure theresources we need... ah fundraising.  Plunket’sannual Bear Hug Appeal is being held from 2 – 8 March 2015 and we’re invitingyou to “give us a hug” and show your support. 

 We know thereare many deserving charities and organisations which approach you throughoutthe year requesting donations.  So whatsets Plunket apart?  Plunket is a NewZealand icon having supported parents and families for over 107 years.  Plunket is the main provider of health andwellbeing services for New Zealand’s children. Our Plunket Nurses see over 90% of babies born in New Zealand – chancesare you were a Plunket baby. 

We’re there tohelp each child get the best start in life by assessing their growth anddevelopment at clinic appointments, providing 24/7 support and advice throughPlunketline, supporting parents with helpful parenting programmes, ensuringchildren travel safely via our affordable car seat rental and sales service,connecting communities through community support groups, and providing familiesin need with essential items.

While Plunkethas a government contract allowing us to provide free home and clinic visitsfrom Plunket and Community Karitane, we rely on fundraising and grants to runthe raft of other services in our local community.  These initiatives include coffeegroups for new parents, weekly playgroups, providing subsidised first aidcourses for parents and vital support for families in need as well asmaintaining and upgrading our clinics and facilities.

I have created aspecial online collection point (through the official Plunket appeal website) wherebusinesses and people can easily and conveniently donate online. If each member of our wonderful community gives  $5 or $10 then we can make an important and significant contribution to thewell-being of children and families in our communities. If you are in theposition to be able to donate this year, then please do so by clicking on

http://appeal.plunket.org.nz/page/caringsowecancontinuetomakegreatcommunitiesforgreatfamiliestoraisegreatkids

Please leave a message  to say that you saw this on OHBaby so we can tell where all the wonderful support is coming from :-)

Remember, that if everyone gives a little, together, we will make a huge difference.

Thanks for reading the post. I look forward to your replies 

Heavenly Talker