Rotary New Zealand

Rotary New Zealand have for many years been gathering and sending repurposed goods to Pacifica countries to equip the educational and health sectors with a focus for those physically and mentally challenged in those communities. Trusted partners in Pacific countries receive the goods and ensure that the vulnerable and needy receive them. Often, they have to be on shipped to outer islands where the need is greater than that on the main island. Many school Head Teachers have said without this support, hundreds of children have to sit on the floor at school. The need is ongoing. Cyclones and floods area a common annual event across the pacific and each time the destruction affects schools with buildings severely damaged and fittings destroyed beyond repair, hence the need for replacement. Equipment for the disabled is also in short supply and many children and adults have only the floor to sleep on and many have no assisted mobility are there is a high shortage of wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Disability Stigma, i.e. negative attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours are still directed towards individuals with disabilities. This can significantly impact the lives of people with disabilities, leading to social isolation, reduced access to opportunities, and mental health challenges the spokesperson said.