Contribute to family day

Debbie Munroe has dedicated the past three years to helping people in need.

She and her fellow volunteers distribute food, blankets, clothing and care packages outside Southmall shopping centre in Manurewa every Tuesday and Thursday at 6pm.

Her ‘United We Stand Waka of Caring’ group serves up hearty meals including nachos, wraps, stews with meat and vegetables, and cups of tea to anyone who needs it.

The initiative is run with community contributions as Munroe refuses to accept cash donations.

What she’s seen over the past three years makes her more vocal about the plight of the homeless and disadvantaged, she says.

‘‘It also makes me very frustrated. We’re lucky compared to a lot of families and appreciate what we’ve got. We do so much for people without taking money from anyone.

‘‘We’re not going to stop anytime soon as there will always be a need whether we acknowledge it or not.’’

Munroe is now organising her third annual free family fun day.

There will be hot and cold food, children’s toys, face-painting, prizes, arts and crafts, clothing and entertainment, and it’s all free.

‘‘The whole purpose is to have thousands of smiling faces,’’ she says.

The free family fun day is from 10am to 3pm on November 5 at Homai School in Browns Rd, Manurewa. Go to Facebook and search ‘United We Stand Waka of Caring’ to contribute food or other goods.