Warm gift for needy children

After six months of hard work, 24 colourful quilts are ready to brighten the lives of vulnerable youngsters at Gisborne's Te Kainga Whaiora Children's Health Camp.


The quilts were presented to Dr Fiona Inkpen, chief executive of the Foundation for Child and Family Health and Development, at Government House in Wellington.


The inspiration for the quilts followed a visit to the health camp last year by Governor General Dame Silvia Cartwright, who wanted to add colour to the children's lives.


She invited a group of 12 Wellington quiltmakers to produce the snuggly blankets, and the results of their efforts will be given to the children in two weeks.


"The quilts are practical and highly creative and made with such love," said Dame Silvia.


"These are kids who don't have much and I'm delighted and so grateful to the women who worked to produce them."


Rosalie Thurston, who co-ordinated the project, said the quilters met once a month to encourage each other, as well as working on the project in their spare time. Six more quilts will be made.


"We feel it's important for children who are moved from their homes to have something bright of their own which they can relate to. A lot of love went into the making of the quilts," she said.


Dr Inkpen said the gift was a reflection of what communities could do to help others.


- NZPA