Help ‘overwhelms’ family after car theft

A refugee family left high and dry when their car was stolen and written off feel they have been given a fresh start after being inundated with donations and offers of help.

Within hours of word getting out about the Burmese family’s plight, donors replaced their car, and a crowdfunding campaign raised nearly $24,000. Husband and wife A Noung and Than Than Nyain, along with their sons Mu Gay and Win Naing Soe, settled in Wellington in 2019 after fleeing ethnic violence in Myanmar.

Through a translator, A Noung said his eldest son, Mu Gay, who owned the stolen car, was dancing for joy when he saw the generosity of more than 500 benefactors. ‘‘When we learned that so many people were helping, we were very surprised. I never thought people would help like that. The comments and messages from people showing empathy makes us so happy and overwhelmed.’’

He said the donated sum was more money than the family had ever seen and, for them, it was life-changing. It would help them set up their future in New Zealand.

‘‘We all want to work hard to learn our Kiwi language. We then want to gain employment and be contributing members of the New Zealand society. We want to focus on our two boys, so they can learn the language well, get a good job and have a bright future. We have been given a great opportunity, and we want to make the most of it. We are so thankful.’’

Mu Gay said the car had given them options and freedom that was taken away when it was stolen outside their Maupuia home in late November.

At the weekend, Ben and Geraldine Everist donated their Mazda Premacy to the family, and by the start of the week it had been transferred to their ownership. Insurance and a steering wheel lock were also bought for it in case of a repeat incident.

Ben Everist said: ‘‘We had plans to sell it but when we saw the article, we thought it’d be of more use to them. It was a nobrainer. We’re super happy to give back, and hope they can get out and do what they need to do.’’

Mu Gay also received an offer of employment, and will be starting work with a scaffolding business next week.

MONIQUE FORD/STUFF The Burmese refugee family received financial donations and a car after having their previous car stolen and written off. Left, front to back, are A Noung and Mu Gay and right, front to back, are Than Than Nyain and Win Naing Soe in the gifted vehicle.