Foundation appeals for baby clothes, blankets…

Foundation appeals for baby clothes, blankets…

As winter draws to an end and longer days start to hint at spring, the maternity unit at Waitakere Hospital is readying itself for what is traditionally its busiest time of the year.

More than 2500 babies are born at the hospital each year and it is many of these babies that the West Auckland Health Services Foundation is aiming to help.

As part of its winter programme, the foundation has launched an appeal for new woollen baby clothes, bootees, bonnets, blankets and baby wool for the hospital’s auxiliary knitters.

Foundation executive director Dr Nicole Bassett says the next three months are the busiest for the maternity unit, so the foundation would like to help where it can.

“Keeping a newborn warm during the winter and spring months can be difficult for many families. We would like to give them a hand by donating warm baby clothes and blankets to as many mothers at the unit as we can.

“The foundation is also financing a new maternity garden development, which when finished will provide a fantastic outdoor area where mothers and their families can relax.”

Dr Bassett says the foundation is continuing to develop opportunities for local groups to get involved with supporting the redevelopment of Waitakere Hospital.

“The foundation has received tremendous support from community groups over the past few months.

“The Rotary Club of Henderson has recently committed to the development of a special children’s garden; the Baby Factory has donated clothes and breast pumps; the Scottwood Group has funded a defibrillator and the Portage Licensing Trust has donated an ECG machine.

“Donations like these make a real difference to the hospital, patients and their families.”

Dr Bassett says assistance is still required for further garden developments, children’s play areas, furniture for patient day rooms, and a washer and drier for the new older adult wards.

A volunteer programme is also being developed to assist with helping patients and visitors find their way around the hospital. If you would like to make a donation, or become a volunteer, or generally assist the foundation, contact Dr Bassett email nicole.bassett@waitematadhb.govt.nz.

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