Over the month of May, as part of their Year 13 Social Action internal assessment, Westlake Girls High School students Georgia Clarke and Isla McHarg organised a winter drive in support of Give a Kid a Blanket.
When choosing an issue to focus on, the students wanted to make a meaningful impact within the local community. After learning about Give a Kid a Blanket from their Social Studies teacher Mrs Charlesworth, and the incredible work they do to support families during winter, they were inspired to get involved and support the charity’s mission.
The response from the school community exceeded all expectations, with donation boxes overflowing with warm winter supplies, including brand-new and handmade items generously donated by Westlake Girls High School students and staff. The students were incredibly grateful for the support received and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to help local families in need. Through this experience, they also had the chance to meet Bernie Harfleet (pictured above), the co-founder of Give a Kid a Blanket, whose compassion, generosity, and dedication to the community left a lasting impression and provided valuable lessons about kindness and social responsibility.
Community members can continue to support v by donating clean blankets, warm clothing, sleeping bags, or winter essentials through local collection points which can be found on their website https://giveakidablanket.co.nz/about/. Every contribution helps provide warmth and comfort to families across the community during the colder months.
