Response to appeal has a whiff of heroism

Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. So do good deeds.

Last week we had a senior Wanganui fireman rescuing a half-dead puppy from a blazing house. Some called him a hero, but the tag was probably embarrassing - to him, it was just routine.

Today we report on the wave of support for a hungry mum who, backed into a corner, sent out an appeal for help. The response was as rapid as it was remarkable ... and it has a whiff of heroism about it. The needy being helped out by the slightly-less-needy.

Well done to those who chipped in with food and support, rather than passing judgment and demanding a means test. It was a wonderful reflection on the spirit and attitude of people in Wanganui.

Let us hope the resulting community gardens project flourishes and provides food for those in dire straits. Like Breakfast in Schools, we shouldn't need it ... but we do.

Such grass-roots groups can easily fall prey to bickering and dissent. Who did what? Who gets what? Who is most deserving? Whose needs are greatest? Groups get pulled apart by the in-fighting.

The Whanganui Community Gardens Project is trying to circumvent these potential troubles by having no committee to wield power and issue directives, and by not dealing in money. No money means no money to fight over. So teamwork and direct action are the name of the game. More power to them - and thumbs-up to those businesses and organisations lending a helping hand.

Feedback should be sent to: The Editor, Wanganui Chronicle, 59 Taupo Quay, PO Box 433, Wanganui 4500; or email editor@wanganuichronicle.co.nz