Volunteer Van Drivers and Companion Shoppers Wanted
If you're interested in paying forward, here is an opportunity.
Manukau East Council of Social Services (MECOSS) is seeking volunteer drivers and companions for its shopping shuttle.
Every Thursday, the shuttle takes people, who often live alone, and no longer drive, or cannot access other transport, to Botany Town Centre or Pakuranga Plaza for shopping and a cuppa.
"They have the chance to talk, ask questions, walk around, and they actually form friendships," says volunteer Maureen McKechnie.
Drivers are mainly responsible for arranging the times and routes for pick-ups and delivering the passengers safely.
"It's not a huge thing, but for those in need, it's really important and worthwhile."
Companions help clients get into and out of the vehicle and assist with seatbelts. They can also book a walker or scooter for passengers to use at the shopping centres if required.
Mellons Bay resident Nicki Patterson is one of the 22 drivers and companions.
"It's about giving back to the community," says Patterson. "I enjoy it.
"Though the seniors are out for just a couple of hours, it's a big thing for them, rather than having every day exactly the same.
"We tend to lose our identity as we grow older, and get overlooked. But during the trips, passengers are treated as individuals. They are recognised as who they are, and their personalities come out."
Funded by various parties, MECOSS expresses its appreciation for the support from the Howick Local Board.
Speaking of the challenges ahead, McKechnie says: "We must make sure we have drivers available to us, and also having passengers to take."
MECOSS is a not-for-profit organisation providing community support services.
People interested in being a driver and companion volunteer can phone Maureen on 0800 632 677.
Poll: Should drivers retake the theory test every 10 years?
Drivers get where they need to go, but sometimes it seems that we are all abiding by different road rules (for example, the varying ways drivers indicate around a roundabout).
Do you think drivers should be required to take a quick driving theory test every 10 years?
Vote in the poll and share any road rules that you've seen bent! 😱
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49.5% Yes
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48.6% No
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1.9% Other - I'll share below
Here's Thursday's thinker!
I am lighter than air, but a hundred people cannot lift me. What am I?
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2 Bedroom Unit – Half Moon Bay/FarmCove/Highland Park available for rent.
2 Bedroom Unit – Half Moon Bay/FarmCove/Highland Park available for rent.
A lovely 2-bedroom unit coming up for rent close to mid October 2024 (final date yet to be confirmed). Offers
- 2-bedroom, 1 bathroom, toilet.
- open plan kitchen with dishwasher, separate laundry
- spacious living area
- heat pump
- alarm system.
- own private deck
- piped gas for cooking and on demand hot water supply.
- separate gas, electricity and water meter
- Plenty On-street parking.
Walking distance to Wakaaranga Primary, Farmcove Intermediate and Pakuranga college. Close proximity to Highland Park supermarkets, public transport and ferry services. Suitable for up to 3 tenants.
Ideal tenant: Small family with school going child or professional couple. Will need to provide good rental references and good credit history. Please note photos are not current since tenants still residing. They were taken when unit was just built. Fridge in photo not included.
Listed elsewhere.
Moving cost:
Bond: 4 weeks rent
Rent: 1 week rent in advance
Tenant is responsible for water, power, lawn, garden maintenance, and other outgoings.
Sorry No pets, Smokers/Vapers please
Rent : $580 per week but negotiable for long term commitment.
Those interested please contact by email 2bedroomunit4rent@gmail.com with a short introduction about yourself and include a completed tenancy application. Form is available on www.tenancy.govt.nz...
Property can be viewed strictly by prior appointment only.
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