Art contest links children with the older generation

Back in India the elderly are very well connected with family, whereas here they often get isolated. So we thought it would be nice to try to connect the generations

Auckland primary school students are being encouraged to get creative to support the elderly as part of a unique art competition.

The competition is run by Indian-based charity Amma on behalf of Shanti Niwas charitable trust which provides counselling services and social events for the elderly.

Entry to the competition costs $5, with all money raised going to Shanti Niwas.

Children aged 5 to 11 years are invited to draw something they love that connects them with their grandparents, in keeping with the competition’s theme of ‘‘Just like Nan’’.

Amma president Aniruddh Gandhi says it is important to support older people because they often have New Zealand.

‘‘Back in India the elderly are very well connected with family, whereas here they often get isolated. So we thought it would be nice to try

it tough in to connect the generations,’’ Mr Gandhi says.

The competition wraps up with a fun day at Shanti Niwas’ hall in Onehunga on July 28.

An art exhibition, face painting and food stalls will be on offer plus a chance to turn entrants’ artwork into calendars or greeting cards.

There will also be cash prizes for the top three places along with consolation vouchers and other spot prizes.

For more information or to enter go to amma.org.nz.