Messages of hope for ‘Muslim wha¯ nau’
Some of the $8.3 million donated to victims of last week’s Christchurch mosque attack has already been distributed, with emergency payments being made ‘‘on an as-required basis’’.
Money has flooded in from across the country and around the world after Victim Support and New Zealand Islamic Information Centre (NZICC) set up online appeals.
As of yesterday afternoon, Victim Support’s Givealittle campaign had received $6,165,926 – the highest amount raised since the website began in 2008 – with several donations of $10,000.
Chief Executive Kevin Tso said the organisation was overwhelmed by the response.
‘‘This is an unprecedented fundraising response to an unprecedented tragedy in New Zealand and we thank everybody who has donated.
‘‘The amount reflects the tragedy’s widespread ripple effect and the human desire to help others in need. New Zealand and the world are in mourning,’’ Tso said.
Donations have been received from all over New Zealand and overseas including; Australia; Canada; United Kingdom; United States; United Arab Emirates; South Africa; Germany; Ireland; Malaysia and the Maldives.
Mr Tso said it was too early to say exactly how the money would be used, but confirmed it would
not fund any of the organisation’s regular operating costs.
‘‘We have begun making emergency payments to victims on an as-required basis, respecting cultural advice and considerations at each step.
‘‘This morning, Victim Support met with other key fundholders to begin the process of working together to ensure remaining funds are used in a fair, responsible, and coordinated way.
‘‘We urge the public for patience at this critical time while we commit our full efforts to the immediate safety and wellbeing of those affected by Friday’s events.’’
Meanwhile, the donation page created by members of Auckland’s at-Taqwa mosque and New Zealand Islamic Information Centre (NZIIC) has raised a further $2.1m.
More than 36,000 donors have pledged to LaunchGood, an American Islamic crowdfunding website.
Dr Mohammad Anwar Sahib, founder and chairman of NZIIC, said the proceeds will be distributed to the families at the earliest opportunity.
‘‘We are working to find the best way to distribute the money for the maximum benefit of the community, but it is too early to say exactly how it will be distributed. We don’t want to rush things and do things too soon.
‘‘The amount we have received is very encouraging, but the bigger the amount the greater the responsibility so we have to make sure we do things right.’’
Victims directly affected by the shootings, who require financial, practical or emotional support, are encouraged to contact Victim Support on 0800 842 846.
Members of the public feeling distressed can contact Need To Talk by text or phoning 1737.