We know that the recent flooding and cyclone have affected many parts of our beautiful country. During these trying times, it is the community and voluntary sector that steps up to the plate to provide much-needed support and care to those in need. We are in awe of the incredible volunteering efforts that have been invested in the cyclone response. We want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate your contributions. Thank you for being the backbone of Aotearoa’s hauora | wellbeing.
As we move forward, the weeks, months, and years to come will be about community resilience, environmental regeneration, and building back better. It is crucial that we all play our part in this process
That’s why Hui E! are excited to introduce you to the East Coast Exchange, an initiative launched by Toha in Tairāwhiti. It’s a free online system available for individuals and organizations to record and value local volunteering efforts. The East Coast Exchange will help paint a unified picture of the goods, time, and money put into the recovery in Hawke’s Bay, Tairāwhiti, and other cyclone-affected areas.
As funds come into the exchange, they’re allocated to points holders. People who have earned points can either hold onto them or donate them to their favourite charity, school, or community group. This process ensures that 100% of the effort put in results in 100% of the funding going out to charities, schools, and community groups.
We believe that the East Coast Exchange is a fantastic opportunity to bring recognition to the mahi underway across recovery communities. It’s a chance to shine a light on the local effort and help ensure that funds get to the right places.
If you’d like to help share the word about East Coast Exchange, you can download social media assets and handy wording here. And if you have any questions, check out the organisation behind the East Coast Exchange at Toha, founded by Nathalie Whittaker, Shaun Hendy, and Mike Taitoko.
Let’s continue to work together and support each other as we recover and rebuild. Together, we can make a positive difference in our communities.
Image credits: East Coast Exchange
