Poppy Appeal 2019

This year’s RSA Poppy Appeal has been launched with a focus on the support needed for families of service men and women. The theme is.... He whānau kotahi tātou - We are all family.

“Service to New Zealand often comes with some sacrifice,” says RSA National President BJ Clark.

“Most of the time this is seen as a personal sacrifice, yet the impact is also felt intensely by family members and sometimes this can last across many generations.”

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, The Hon Ron Mark, says this year’s Poppy Appeal will remember and acknowledge the ‘whole sacrifice’ that was made and is still being made by today's NZDF personnel and their families.

“Of the 41,000 veterans in New Zealand, around 31,000 are what we call Contemporary veterans,” says Ron Mark. “This means they’ve been involved in more modern operations such as Bosnia, East Timor, Afghanistan or Naval and Air Force patrols off the Horn of Africa.

“Each of these operations involved a lot of time away from family, and it can be a struggle for those returning from operations to integrate back into society upon their return.

“Services which assist with this transition are a vital part of supporting our modern day military and it’s great to see the RSA doing work in this area,” says Ron Mark.

How can Kiwis contribute?

The proceeds of the Poppy Appeal help veterans coping with the myriad of conditions brought on by service, for help with transitioning to civilian life or financial aid in times of hardship. The Poppy Appeal is a time for New Zealanders to recognise that service and give back to those who have made sacrifices and put their well-being at risk for others.

Members of the public can support the appeal by making a donation to a Street Appeal collector on Friday 12 April. Donations can also be made online at rsa.org.nz/donate; at any ANZ branch; and via text – simply text POPPY to 4622 to make a $3 donation.

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