COMMUNITY HELP
Here’s what you can do
Here’s what you can do
So how can we help? Kiwis have already responded with overwhelming kindness, compassion and generosity in the wake of the attack but, in the weeks to come, the Muslim community, Christchurch and New Zealand as a whole will continue to need a helping hand.
There are plenty of ways you can help out, ranging from monetary donations through to small but helpful and symbolic ways of showing your support.
DONATIONS
• Proceeds from The New Zealand Islamic Information Centre’s crowd-funding page will go towards helping victims with their immediate, shortterm needs. Visit the website at launchgood.com/christchurch.
• The New Zealand Council of Victim Support Groups has also set up a crowd-funding campaign on Givealittle.
The link for the page is: givealittle.co.nz/cause/ christchurch-shooting-victimsfund. All donations received at this page will provide support and resources for people affected by the Christchurch shootings.
FOOD
• Cantabrians can also donate to the Christchurch Mosque Support Halal Food Drop. Please keep in mind that if you’re donating food items containing meat, it must be halal − Islam places a great deal of importance on the way an animal’s life ends and any meat intended for human consumption needs to have been prepared in accordance with Islamic beliefs. Look for a label on food or visit a dedicated halal butchery.
• It’s also worth noting that most Muslims don’t consume pork or alcohol.
• Please pack food well and in containers/bags that you are comfortable giving away. Food can be dropped off at Theos Fisheries, 82 Riccarton Rd, Christchurch.
REMEMBRANCE
• Many vigils have already taken place for victims of the attack, but plenty more remembrance services will be held in the future. Keep an eye on community Facebook pages and newspapers to see what’s going on in your area.
• A day of national mourning will be held. The date had not been announced at press time.
• There are many books of condolence throughout the country, located in community centres, churches and libraries.
• The folks at Sending Love, who usually send Christmas cards to those who otherwise might not receive any, have opened their Post Office box so people can send cards to the families of the victims in Christchurch.
The address is PO Box
90701, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1142.
SUPPORT
• The actions of frontline police and medical professionals have been nothing short of heroic. Support first responders and those still working to ensure the safety of Kiwis. From delivering boxes filled with home baking, coffee runs and donations to organisations such as St John ambulance services, think of those who are still on the job and how you can help them keep working.
• Are you a knitter? Barista? Babysitter? Whatever special skill you might have, consider offering your time and expertise to Muslim and
Islamic community groups or similar organisations throughout the country.
• Offer support to your local Muslim community – from offering to accompany people to the supermarket if they’re feeling a little vulnerable, through to popping into businesses where those of the Muslim faith work. A simple post on a community social media page is a good place to start, or visit Collaborate for Christchurch at letscollaborate. co.nz to join their Facebook group and find out some ways to help those affected.
Or, call your local mosque or community group with your offer to help wherever they think it’s needed.
• Visit a local mosque to show solidarity – just be mindful of security protocols. Dress modestly, as you would in any house of worship.