The Aunties sponsorship
There is a group of amazing women, The Aunties, working quietly, mostly under the radar, helping victims of domestic violence heal and find their whaea (power) again. Jackie Clark is the head Auntie and is supported by dedicated volunteers across New Zealand.
It’s not just about finding a refuge for women at risk for the short term, the association Jackie and her team establish with women, can be for years. Confidents, advisors, advocates- they are all of these, helping women understand and acknowledge that they are in abusive relationships and that it is possible for them to escape not just physical but predominantly mental abuse.
How the Aunties are doing good
Jackie and her team help with anything from providing financial support for bills, supermarket vouchers, clothing, bedding and household appliances to women and their families in need. Connecting them to their strong network of support agencies is also a key part of the service they provide.
The Aunties organise events where their whanau of women and children can connect with each other and feel special, even for just an afternoon.
Christmas gift boxes for children, birthday party boxes, and access to a storage unit where they can access items they need, are provided free of charge.
Jackie’s public speaking, and facilitating Domestic Violence workshops at the invitation of large corporates, is educating women who have been afraid to recognise that what they are experiencing is abuse, and helping them on the long road to healing and independence.
What does this mean to Kiwiown?
Laurence Pope, CEO, had a clear view of what he wanted to achieve. “We wanted to support a charitable organisation that does great work but doesn’t have the same level of sponsorship or funding as some of the larger more recognised charities. It was also important for us to know that donations directly benefit whanau and not to support high administrative overhead.
That’s why we support the Aunties where we can, donating products like washing machines, dryers, microwaves and other household items to those who need them, no questions asked”.
The company is committed to a long-term relationship with the Aunties. They need your help too. Make a difference, by donating to the Aunties to support their wonderful work.
