UOC staff and students handing over winter pyjamas to Christchurch hospital volunteers. From left, Gaye Meffan, Sarah Cosgrove; Howard Whitteker, Kareen Iposu, Amanda Clifford, Fong Fu, Sheila Moreten, Margaret Kinzett.
Tamariki attending Christchurch Hospital this winter will soon be cosy and warm, thanks to the kindness of staff and students at the University of Otago, Christchurch.
For the second year running, they've reached into their pockets to purchase and donate 60 pairs of brand-new flannelette pyjamas for sick children.
Campus coordinator, Student Experience, Amanda Clifford, who organises the UOC pyjama initiative, handed the pyjamas over to Christchurch Hospital volunteers on campus this week.
“Staff and students here at UOC are just happy to donate and delighted to know they’ll be helping our tamariki stay warm,” Amanda says.
“Pyjamas may just be a small thing, but many [people] tell me they enjoyed heading out to choose and purchase them, finding it a simple and direct way to give back.”
Christchurch Hospital volunteer coordinator Louise Hoban-Watson says the hospital volunteer team is extremely grateful for the contribution.
“At this time of year winter pj’s are a must, and not all children have them,” Louise says.
“You wouldn’t believe the smile such a simple gift brings to children in our care, so let’s continue to bring warmth and comfort to those who need it most.”
Pyjama donations need to be new, unworn, and in their original packaging, Louise says.
“We would absolutely love more pairs, too, if anyone else wishes to donate.”
Pyjamas can either be given to Wayfinding volunteers at the hospital or left at the main reception.