AUCKLAND, New Zealand, 25 July 2011 – Winter has really made its presence felt over the last few days, and the Salvation Army says the people of quake-torn Christchurch are bearing the brunt. Energy company Chevron today launched a national appeal for help, through its national network of Caltex service stations, matching public donations to buy blankets.

The company is going all out to warm up those severely affected by extreme cold due to the damage that the earthquakes and aftershocks have caused to homes and belongings.

In response to a request from the Salvation Army, for the next two weeks Caltex will match every $20 donation made at the pump up to a total of $50,000 to enable the Sallies to purchase and distribute warm blankets and other practical items.

“Caltex has already dug deep and donated fuel to enable us to support people in need in the Christchurch community. Further practical and real-time assistance for programmes like ours makes a positive impact on our ability to help,” says Major Robbie Ross.

“So many families have had their homes damaged to various degrees. With gaping cracks in walls, crumbling chimneys and unreliable electricity we’re going back to basics and supplying people with warm and durable blankets, alongside other necessities, to help them endure the biting conditions. It’s -9C today and snow is making access in pot-hole riven streets particularly challenging,” says Major Ross.

“New Zealanders continue to donate to lift the spirits and improve the prospects of residents affected by the quakes,” says Pete Morris, General Manager of Chevron New Zealand. “If we can work together with our customers around the country to alleviate the cold and discomfort, we’ll be delighted.”

The donation programme will run for a two-week period from July 25 at all Caltex service stations. All funds raised will be used by the Salvation Army to purchase goods for immediate distribution.

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