Whakaari and the generosity of the global village

Rosemary Sloman
Executive Officer
Eastern Bay Community Foundation
30 January 2020

Response to the tragedy that unfolded on December 9^th upon Whakaari / White Island has been incredibly heart-warming. When it comes to adversity, the generosity of our global village is paving the way forward.

Donations have come from around the world from individuals, businesses and philanthropic trusts to provide some assistance in the long-term for the New Zealand based casualties of the volcanic eruption.

Regular updates of positive progress have been reported by the families of the two Whakatane-based tour guides in the burns units at Lower Hutt and Middlemore Hospitals. However there are others who have eluded the spotlight, who are also receiving ongoing critical after care.

To date the funds held in trust in the Whakaari/White Island Fund, including the first month’s proceeds from a Givealittle page, stand at over $40k. Fundraising efforts continue, with concerts, artworks and events planned to boost the fund.

Medical experts believe that physical recovery and rehabilitation from the eruption could take up to five years, however emotionally the scars may never heal. What they do know, is that with care and support the lives of those affected can be reshaped and opportunities for a new and different pathway can be realised.

In this often unpredictable world, ‘our global village’ has come together to gather essential funds to provide for a better brighter future for these survivors and the families affected. The Whakaari / White Island Fund is here for the long haul, and donations can continue to be made at any Kiwibank Branch throughout New Zealand or online (see further details here).

We are all in this together, our stewardship of this fund will enable ‘the village’ to show their support for those who have been affected well into their future.

Thank you everyone for your generosity and support of our local Whakaari Fund, which we hope will help those affected to move forward with their lives. Kia kaha.