Waikato-Tainui donates $100,000
Children across Waikato and South Auckland are getting a helping a hand from WaikatoTainui and KidsCan.
The confederation of iwi are donating $100,000 to the KidsCan charity, in a one-year partnership to provide 23 Waikato and South Auckland schools with food and supplies such as raincoats, shoes, socks and basic health and hygiene items.
Waikato-Tainui chair Rukumoana Schaafhausen said the partnering is a smart way for the two organisations to work together to achieve their strategic goals for their tamariki and mokopuna within their tribal rohe and the communities they are in.
‘‘We have signed a one-year partnership with KidsCan to support the great work they are doing in schools. Our tamariki and mokopuna are our future and as an iwi, we are committed to supporting them to be in a position to design the world they want to live in – this starts with getting them into the classroom in a position to learn.’’
To mark the partnership, a powhiri was held at Papakura Intermediate on May 11, welcoming members of Waikato-Tainui, KidsCan, and other community leaders.
King Tuheitia’s eldest son Te Ariki Tamaroa, Whatumoana Paki was also present at the ceremony, representing his father.
Papakura Intermediate has been a KidsCan school for five years, and principal Rebecca Kaukau said the positive impact on the children has been obvious.
‘‘The KidsCan kai has been an instrumental part of our strategy to make sure every learner is supported to be healthy and happy so they can be in class, engage in learning, and fulfil their potential.’’
This will be KidsCan’s first collaboration with iwi, but the charity hopes others will follow, said KidsCan founder Julie Chapman.
‘‘We’re excited by this historic collaboration because we know Waikato-Tainui is equally dedicated to helping children who are going without the basics, get an equal chance at an education.’’
The partnership comes as KidsCan are still waiting to hear whether they will receive $350,000 in government funding.