1002 days ago

Young family homeless and apart after fire engulfs their Canterbury home

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

Solo mother of four Bonnie Montgomery lost everything when a fire destroyed her Eyrewell home just on Saturday evening.

They were left with just the clothes on their back, and had been forced to split up. The two youngest children were staying with their mum at a Kaiapoi motel, while the older two children were staying with friends.

Being cooped up in the motel with two toddlers was not ideal, and Montgomery was desperately searching for an affordable rental in the wider Kaiapoi area, where her children were educated.

Montgomery’s sister had set up a Givealittle page to help the family get back on their feet. They had no furnishings, clothing or basic essentials. Friends had also asked for donated items, leaving Montgomery in tears at people’s kindness.

Although losing priceless jewellery gifted by her grandmother, rosary beads from her nana and printed photos of her children when they were babies had been difficult to accept, Montgomery was just thankful her family was safe.

“It could have been worse,” she said.

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More messages from your neighbours
1 day ago

Need A Pair of Jeans Taken in Please.

Rae from Rangiora

Hello neighbours, I'm asking on behalf of my daughter. She has a pair of jeans that are a little bit to big around the waist. Any recommendations for someone to alter please in Oxford, Cust or Rangiora. Thank you

1 day ago

Nursery open this long weekend

Goughs Nurseries

Open 10am to 4 pm. Check out plant catalogue (www.goughsnurseries.co.nz...) on the website for plant availability. Plants $8 each.

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1 day ago

Bob Francis Wins Senior New Zealander Of The Year

Charles Upham Retirement Village

Seven-term Mayor of Masterton, Bob Francis CNZM QSO MBE JP, has been named the 2024 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.

Affectionately dubbed ‘Mr Wairarapa’, Bob has served his community in multiple areas, including health services, commercial development, the arts, aviation, homelessness, conservation and sports.

Bob’s award signifies the sixth time Ryman Healthcare has supported this category of the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards, which provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Kiwi seniors who continue to make positive contributions towards the future of Aotearoa.

Click read more for the full article.

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