Zonta East Auckland is part of a Zonta International campaign Zonta Says No to gender-based violence. Locally, Zonta has undertaken to have a conversation with key people from the White Ribbon campaign, Ghandi Nivas, Woven Earth, Women’s Refuge and Shine. This is part 2
Gay Gallagher from Zonta East Auckland talks with Kerryn Thrupp, Founder and CEO of Woven Earth.
Gay loved the hashtag #thenwhat which captures the reason for Woven Earth looking to provide practical support for families with dignity and respect following the difficult time of displacement.
The emphasis is on providing for the whole family, especially the children for whom the impact of family violence can be significant.
In the four years since Woven Earth was established, Kerryn’s team has supported families out of violent relationships by helping furnish new homes with appliances, bedding, linen, clothes, toys, cleaning products and the numerous items that the families need to rebuild their lives.
The statistics are impressive – 495 homes, catering for almost 1500 family members including 978 children, from Warkworth to Pukekohe, all accomplished with generous donations of items and funds from the public.
Gay was reminded that there are 45 frontline domestic violence support agencies across the Auckland region liaising with Woven Earth, all working to break the cycle of abuse.
It is from these agencies that the referrals are forwarded to Kerryn. The work of Woven Earth is being evaluated by Impact Lab to measure the social impact – what the social return is of the investment that is being given out to families.
Such evaluation is essential to be able to apply for funding and resources. The greatest challenge, other than funding, is finding a warehouse large enough to house their donated goods and from where they organise the items needed for the next household.
Kerryn appreciates having a hardworking, efficient group of volunteers who assist in preparing for each household delivery.
It is no wonder that some of the families regard Woven Earth members as being ‘Angels’.
Woven Earth is looking to provide the gift of hope and belief in the goodness that exists in New Zealand!
Certainly talking with Kerryn, Gay found herself hopeful of the humanity in committed, compassionate people in our community.
People who may wish to donate goods or donations can access information at www.wovenearth.org.nz.
