Keeping RSE workers cosy
There will be fewer shivering RSE workers in Te Puke this kiwifruit season.
Already coming to a cooler climate than that of their homes, the RSE workers also have to handle lowering temperatures as the kiwifruit season gets into full swing.
For the fourth year, Te Puke Anglican Church has mobilised the community to donate blankets, duvets and sleeping bags, sheets, pillows and pillow cases that have been made into packs for the visiting workers.
Last Friday members of the congregations of the Anglican and Roman Catholic churches spent the morning making packs — with over 100 made up from donations.
Rev Ruth Dewdney says the congregations and the wider community have really come to the party after a call went out for donations.
The initiative began in 2017 to provide warm bedding for RSE workers from Vanuatu who attended the church.
Things snowballed in in 2018 when 35 warm bedding packs were made up. Each consisted of a duvet/quilt or sleeping bag, sheets and pillowcases. These were snapped up by RSE workers who got one pack free.
Last year 52 packs were handed out and this year even more are available.
Most also include soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste, work socks and some have a hot water bottle.
Ruth says coming from a warmer climate, the RSE workers arrive in Te Puke just as the weather begins to cool and, while they are given bedding, they feel the cold and often need more to keep warm at night.
“This is something which we as a community can help with. These workers contribute to our economy in a big way by picking our fruit and spending in our shops. This is something we can do to show our appreciation.”
The packs are at the church op shop on the corner of Jocelyn and Queen streets. They also contain useful information about Te Puke and tips for living in New Zealand. The church also has some jackets for workers.