Volunteer with Samaritans
Kia ora koutou,
My name's Leola and I've been a volunteer with Samaritans Manawatū for three years now. For those of you who haven't heard of Samaritans before, we're part of a global organisation who provide listening services to people who are distressed, suicidal, and lonely. Primarily we do this through our 24/7 phone line, and we can do shifts both from our office and from home. The Manawatū branch was first established in the 1970s and remains a vibrant and diverse organisation, with people of multiple ages, cultures, and backgrounds.
We're on the look out for keen new volunteers, who have big hearts and want to make a difference in the world. No specific skills are required, just a willingness to listen and be compassionate to those in need. Training is flexible and we do our best to support volunteers every step of the way. When you join Samaritans, you also join a wonderful family of like-minded people, who care not only for our callers but for each other and our communities.
Want to learn more or even sign up? You can send me a message here, or email me at manawatu@samaritans.org.nz. Look forward to hearing from you.
Best wishes,
Leola
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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76.3% Yes
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22.3% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Pregnancy Study - Seeking participants for Massey Observational study
Are you less than 15 weeks pregnant or know someone who is?
I would love to hear from you regarding joining an Observation study on New Zealand Pregnant woman investigating Thyroid function. We are seeking participants who are: - ages 18 years or older - Who are early in their pregnancy (less than 15 weeks)
What your participation involves:
• We will ask you a series of questions about your dietary intake, supplement use and lifestyle.
• We will ask you to collect a sample of urine to analyse some micronutrients.
• We will take a blood sample to analyse for micronutrient status and thyroid function.
• After your baby is born we ask that you send us some of baby’s nail clippings
We reimburse your travel expenses.
If you or someone you know would like to take part, or to find out more about the study, please get in touch via email WOVEN@massey.ac.nz or phone 06 951 6437