Sailors help out at City Mission
Auckland City Mission staff were delighted to have help from a group of sailors from HMNZS Canterbury this month.
The sailors helped move furniture and white-ware from the old City Mission base in Hobson Street to the new one in Union Street, and helped prepare and serve lunch to an appreciative group of 100 people in the Mission’s new dining room.
On Friday, four sailors from HMNZS Canterbury volunteered while the ship was in port at Devonport Naval Base for a maintenance period.
“When we heard this opportunity was planned, I was keen to put my hand up and help out while the tempo of the Ship was quiet,” says Sub-lieutenant Erica Williams, the Assistant Supply Officer on HMNZS Canterbury.
“It’s good to get out and meet new people and do something different to give back to the community,” she says. “And it’s fun too!”
Able Logistics Supply Specialist Deanna Makoare helped out with the move, cleaning and moving fridges and washing machines and other furniture.
She was impressed by the variety of ways the Mission offered care to its clients, from breakfasts and lunches, to carving classes, quiz nights and food parcels.
“I was brought up to be grateful for what I have and you know there’s always someone worse off, so that you appreciate what you have.”
“It’s great to have an opportunity to give back — it’s not a hard job,” says Able Logistics Supply Specialist, Tyler Gray while helping out in the kitchen. “It’s something small we can do to help out and helping here reminds me to feel privileged for the life I live.”
“It’s cool to be able to volunteer this help during our maintenance time,” says Able Seaman Combat Specialist, Joanna Brown.
