Debbie Sutcliffe is encouraging people to donate to this year's Pyjama Drive. Photo / Michael Cunningham
Debbie Sutcliffe is encouraging people to donate to this year's Pyjama Drive. Photo / Michael Cunningham
When children unexpectedly have to move out of their home and into a caregiver's home it can be traumatic - but a bag filled with pyjamas, teddies and other treats can make it a bit better.
Debbie Sutcliffe from Foster Hope Northland, a non-for-profit charity, is calling on locals toget involved with the annual Pyjama Drive and donate new pyjamas that will become part of overnight bags for Northland foster children.
"A lot of the things these kids get are second hand, so it's nice to give them something new," she said.
"Sometimes these kids have to leave their homes at short notice and they don't have time to pack.
"It can be traumatic so it's nice if they've got something." The pyjamas go into overnight backpacks filled with "things kids would take on a sleepover" including all hygiene products and something special, such as a teddy bear, books or toys.
The bags are dropped off at Child Youth and Family to distribute to foster kids or they are given to their caregivers.
"One social worker said to me it was one girl's birthday and by chance the bag she received had a party dress in it and she was so happy." The winter Pyjama Drive runs from May to July but Ms Sutcliffe said donations were always welcome.
•If you would like to donate new pyjamas or if you are a caregiver interested in obtaining an overnight bag, contact Ms Sutcliffe on 021 450 805.
