Chick donations show we're not too cheep at Easter
31/03/2010
Kiwis are being encouraged to continue their generosity this Easter as evidence grows of the impact donating just a handful of baby chicks can make to the lives of families in need.
ChildFund New Zealand’s Gifts that Grow catalogue is proving to provide life, livelihoods, and enhanced education opportunities to children in developing countries. Since the catalogue first began, over 40,000 baby chicks with a potential of producing nearly 10 million eggs a year have been donated by New Zealanders.
Solo Sri Lankan mother of seven year old Devayani (pictured) says last year’s gift of baby chickens gives her at least 50 eggs a week.
“This is healthy food for Devayani and we have extra we sell in market. Profit can be $9 for one week. Before, I must work one and half days in a field to earn this much.
“I am determined my daughter shall stay at school. She will stand beside the other students with a school uniform, even with shoes. Throughout the year I will save small coins and be ready to celebrate my daughter’s birthday. She will have an exercise book, and sweets to share.”
“Only children like me can understand hunger,” says Devayani.
“Before we had a chicken farm all I can remember is that we were alone. Now our family is big as people come to our house asking for eggs. I have learnt from the people at ChildFund that people from far countries sacrifice their comforts to help children like me have a better future… so I say a very big thank you”.
In keeping with the spirit of the Easter occasion, this year’s Gifts that Grow catalogue again focuses on baby chicks as the hero gift, and ChildFund New Zealand Chief Executive Paul Brown is encouraging Kiwis to build on the generosity they are renowned for.
Each gift is designed to be sustainable, and to continue to give back to the family. Plus they’re easy to choose, unique and affordable,” adds Mr Brown.
Purchasers receive a special gift card explaining the gift and how it will benefit the recipient. To order ChildFund Gifts That Grow visit our Shop Online page or call 0800 223 111. Purchasers also get a ‘gift back’ via a full tax credit.
