Donation for Kind Hands
Freemason lodges rally for local charity
Whanga¯rei’s Kind Hands has been given a boost to help pay for the care of children who may otherwise “fall between the cracks”. The respite care cottage, run by Sharlene Clements, received a $5000 donation from the Freemasons on Wednesday. It is the second $5000 donation the organisation has provided this year.
Northland district grand master Kevin Burch said the Northland district had made Kind Hands it’s charity for the next couple of years.
“Being able to do something like this is incredible.”
The first donation from the north- ern area Masonic organisation helped buy equipment to furnish the building. The second donation has come from the Youth Assistance Trust — a separate arm within the organisation.
Clements said that money would go towards the part-time care of six children over a period of two months.
“It’s for the children who fall between the cracks — who can’t afford to pay for care.”
Burch said Northland’s 11 lodges — from Wellsford to Kaitaia — were continuing to fundraise and would make more donations in the future.
The wives and partners of the members of the Freemasons have been busy knitting and sewing cardigans, vests, singlets, booties and teddy bears for the centre.
Meanwhile, there has been a community outcry after the community facility was issued with a $21,618.84 bill by Whanga¯rei District Council for development contributions.
Kind Hands was built by Clements’ husband David, and the couple took out a loan to build the centre. Clements said they did intend to pay their development contributions bill, but couldn’t afford to pay it upfront.
She said the council was allowing them to pay it off, but in the meantime the family’s caravan was up for sale as they looked to raise the money.
Whanga¯rei Mayor Sheryl Mai said she has seen the centre’s positive impact on the community and was not surprised so many people wanted to support them.
“Believe it or not, council is doing it’s best to help them too.”
■ A givealittle page has been set up for donations. Go to https:/ /givealittle.co.nz/cause/kind-hands