Pregnancy Help has opened a new branch in Pakuranga Plaza “to bring hope and resources” to the local community.
Branch coordinator Katy Clayton says the new space will make it easier for those needing Pregnancy Help’s resources as it is in the immediate area of the community library, with the Citizens Advice Bureau next door and Plunket one level up in the plaza.
Pregnancy Help is a charity set up more than 40 years ago and provides free and client-focused practical assistance, information and advice for mothers during pregnancy and early childcare.
“It will be a wonderful community resource and we expect to see a lot of walk-in clients seeking and using our services and resources,” Katy says.
Those resources include baby clothing (up to size 2), baby bedding, nappies and maternity clothing and bras which are all provided free.
“We see a lot of expectant mums from all over who really need those items with cost of living issues impacting on so many whanau,” says Katy.
“It is also encouraging to see so many mums using our services to live in a more sustainable way, sometimes swapping clothing or donating baby clothing and equipment and then returning it later so others can also make use of those essential items.”
President of the organisation, Rachel Vicars, says Pregnancy Help relies heavily on donations and funding. In the past year donations have been made to 10,000 whanau with 134,939 items of baby and children’s clothing, 53,950 reusable nappies, 4209 items of baby bedding and 3709 maternity garments.
“All of these items represent gifts of caring as the only way that Pregnancy Help can provide this level of practical support for the community, by donating items and knitting items such as woollen singlets,” she says.
The centre would benefit greatly from having volunteers so if you have some time available and would love to give back to the community, contact Katy for more information.
Pregnancy Help’s new outlet is at 10 Aylesbury Street, Pakuranga Plaza. Level 1, suite 101. Monday – Friday 9am- 3pm.
Donations can be made be made during those hours or phone 3732599.
