Cans on streets to help Caleb

Caleb has been transferred to the Wilson Rehabilitation Centre on Auckland's North Shore where his parents will learn how to manage him with head injuries.

Collectors will be out in force on the streets today collecting donations in support of Masterton toddler Caleb Skinner and his parents.

The 2-year-old received serious head injuries when he was assaulted, allegedly by a friend of his mother two weeks ago.

His parents Joanne Smith and Daryll Skinner have been with him since he was taken to Auckland's Starship Hospital in an induced coma, fighting for his life.

The couple are separated.

Ms Smith has given up her job while Mr Skinner's sick leave has run out.

Wairarapa Advocacy Service co-ordinator Trevor MacKiewicz said the family were struggling through no fault of their own.

Caleb has been transferred to the Wilson Rehabilitation Centre on Auckland's North Shore where his parents will learn how to manage him with head injuries which will affect him for the rest of his life.

"They need help. They still have rent and other bills to pay and they have to eat ... Daryll has nothing left. They have to be able to survive," Mr MacKiewicz said.

Collectors will carry cans identified with a photograph of Caleb and the official Wairarapa Advocacy Service logo.

Resene Paints had supplied the cans.

"We hope people will support this family by putting a little bit in the tins ... Jo and Daryll are grateful for the support from Ronald McDonald House and the doctors and staff up there but they need our help now.Caleb is slowly getting better but it is a long road ahead for them," he said.

Collectors will be outside Masterton supermarkets and in Kuripuni collecting from about 9am.