Caring little girl gives away clothes on High St

Alexis Ferguson, six months, with her mother Skye were thrilled to receive free winter clothing from Poppy Matchett on Dannevirke's High St on Thursday.

Five-year-old Poppy Matchett loves her warm, cosy pyjamas, but has been worried other children might not be so lucky.

Poppy, who lives north of Ormondville and attends Flemington School in Central Hawke's Bay, decided she had too many pairs of pyjamas and wanted to give them away to children feeling the cold.

Flemington School student Poppy Matchett, 5, and mum Jenna attract people's attention to the kids' clothes being given away on Dannevirke's High St.

From the small seed of an idea, Poppy's dream grew and she picked up the phone and rang The Warehouse, Dannevirke New World and Norsewear seeking donations.

She also put the word out through her school newsletter and within three weeks the Matchett household was bulging with wonderful warm garments, blankets and hot water bottles.

Dannevirke New World also donated a box of food and Poppy was able to set up a stall on High St.

"She was flat out ringing the companies, not afraid to share her idea and ask for help," proud dad Mark said.

Dannevirke mum Skye Ferguson was delighted with the free bundle of wonderful clothing she was able to pick up.

"I've some wonderful woollens, onesies and matching pyjamas for my six-month-old daughter Alexis," she said.

Mark said it was nice to see the look on people's faces when they realised the sign was correct - free kids' clothing.

"We're so proud of Poppy," he said.

Bins of clothing disappeared quickly and items left over were donated to local op shops.