Guest Speaker – Fiona George – Red Cross
Our guest speaker was Fiona George from The Red Cross and helper Karen – introduced by Robert.
Fiona spoke to us about the history of Red Cross Worldwide and its involvement in New Zealand. Next year, Red Cross will be celebrating 160 years of doing good in the world, having been founded by Henri Durant, a Swiss Businessman in 1863, who was also involved in establishing the Geneva Convention. Red Cross is the largest volunteer organization in the world, recognized in 193 counties.
In New Zealand, Red Cross is greatly involved in Disaster Risk Management, Emergency Response and supporting Communities to rebuild after an event. During the course of Covid they have been responsible for the distribution of medical supplies, checking on refugees, translating of Covid messages and much more. The Red Cross is the Government chosen charity for helping refugees to settle in New Zealand with the first Polish refugees settling in Paihiatua in 1944.
One of their regular contributions to society in New Zealand, is the delivering of over 11,000 Meals on Wheels every week, ably assisted by our own Maz.
Brian thanked Fiona and Helen for the great work that Red Cross does, including disaster management and help in Ukraine and especially their help with FENZ – Fire & Emergency Training.