More than one thousand people living in the King Country, Central Plateau and Ruapehu have a brand-new toasty pair of pyjamas this winter, thanks to Maru Energy Trust’s Kahumoe Kaupapa PJ Project.
With 1,424 pairs of new winter pyjamas distributed via community networks, Maru is striving to make a real difference to those needing a hand to stay a little bit warmer this winter.
Beginning in 2022 with 497 pairs of pyjamas donated, the PJ Project doubled in 2023 to more than 900 pairs, and last year 1,067 pyjamas were distributed to people in need.
Maru chair Brian Hanna said he is pleased that the project is making such a big difference to local people.
“It's heartbreaking, but the sad reality is that there are some people in our communities – young and old, who go to bed cold,” he said.
Maru, a not-for-profit charitable trust, was established by The Lines Company (TLC) in 2018 to create warm, dry and energy efficient homes to lift the overall health and spirit of people living on the network.
Hanna says that Maru’s focus is to support homeowners to improve homes through insulation and heating but he also knows that it’s hard to sleep when you're cold.
“A good night's sleep is crucial for children to excel at school and for adults to give their best each day. The PJ Project is a way for everyone to give just a little bit.”
Maru coordinator Jo Meads was over the moon with the outcome.
“It is hard to gauge what the response may be as there are so many worthy organisations doing good in our communities,” said Meads who has spearheaded the initiative since inception.
“It was humbling to see pyjamas being gifted, from individuals donating a single pair to dozens of pairs from local organisations and a number of cash donations that enabled our team to buy more.”
Pyjamas were distributed by local organisations in each community including Ōtorohanga Support House, Maniapoto Whanau Ora Centre, Te Arawa Whanau Ora ki Mangakino, Te Whatau Ora – Health New Zealand, CKC REAP (Taumarunui), Nga Waihua o Paerangi Trust (Ohakune), Te Nehenehenui, Te Kūiti Community House, Taumarunui Community Kokiri Trust and Waitomo Waipa Women’s Refuge.
“Working with local organisations on distribution was the perfect way to ensure the pyjamas got to the people who need them the most,” said Meads.
“At Maru, we are extremely grateful to everyone who supported us to gift a good night’s sleep to whānau. Their kindness has made a real difference.”
TLC works with community organisations and leaders across the network area. Mike Wikotu from Manaaki Trust was delighted when he picked up 287 pairs of pyjamas in various sizes from newborns to adults to give out to families struggling with the winter cold in Taumarunui and surrounding areas.
“Kahumoe Kaupapa is an awesome way for everyone to give just a little to families in need,” said Wikotu.
“Having a warm pair of kahumoe during the colder months helps keep our people warm at night, supports better sleep and contributes to overall hauora.”
