195 days ago

Funding keeps Hospital Shuttle Service moving, one ride at a time

Amy from Stoke

Since its humble beginnings in July 2006, the Nelson Hospital Buggy Service has been vital in assisting countless individuals to navigate the undulating grounds of our local hospital. At the heart of this initiative is Kathleen Cuthbert, the dedicated organiser who has been steering the voluntary-run service with an unwavering commitment since the beginning. The shuttle service is entirely fuelled by the generosity of donations and the selflessness of over 25 volunteers. With vital support from benefactors whose contributions are indispensable for its survival, the shuttle operates Monday to Friday, ensuring that no one is left stranded on the hospital grounds. “Without the support we already have and grants from other organisations, we simply could not exist.”

Clive Workman emphasises the critical role that grants such as that from Network Tasman Trust play in maintaining the shuttle and ensuring the ongoing safety of its passengers. “The Rotary Club has been instrumental in providing major funding that sustains our operations, yet, it is the added kindness of individual donors, such as Network Tasman Trust and the generosity displayed in our onboard donation box, that also keeps us going. From purchasing new tyres to repairing damaged canopies, every donation makes a tangible difference in our ability to provide a public service.”

The impact of the service speaks volumes, with over 10,000 passengers shuttled between July 2020 and September 2023 alone. Such recognition has not gone unnoticed, as the team proudly accepted the Tasman Award for their outstanding contributions and was honoured with a Health Department award at Parliament House by Dr. Ashley Bloomfield.

With call buttons across the hospital grounds, the team are keen to raise funds for the installation of security cameras to safeguard the vital signifiers. “Additionally, we are proud to announce the upcoming installation of a plaque and seat in honour of Russell Egan and all volunteers who have dedicated their time and efforts to our cause. We extend a heartfelt thanks to those who have helped us out in the past along with an invitation to individuals to join our team of volunteers.”

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More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.

What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?

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When should the tree go up? 🎄
  • 5.1% Second half of November
    5.1% Complete
  • 44.3% 1st December
    44.3% Complete
  • 16.9% A week before Christmas
    16.9% Complete
  • 32.3% Whenever you wish
    32.3% Complete
  • 1.3% Other - I'll share below
    1.3% Complete
1133 votes
7 hours ago

Unlock Your Inner Detective: Today’s Riddle Awaits!

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

What gets wet while drying?

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

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18 hours ago

What's your favourite tomato recipe?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.

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