Support continues for all Cantabrians

More than two million dollars in Emergency Payments have now been made to Cantabrians affected by the earthquake, says Social Development Minister Paula Bennett.

So far 13,443 Civil Defence payments totalling $2,212,825 have been made.
"Food continues to be the greatest need and we have now made over a million dollars in payments for this. Requests for other essential items such as bedding and clothing are also being met," says Ms Bennett.

Five Work and Income centres are open today to support anyone who needs financial support.

Those centres are in Ashburton, Hornby, Rangioa, Kaiapoi and Riccarton and are open until 4 pm.

These sites are open for emergency assistance only.

Welfare Centres are operating at Burnside High School, Pioneer Stadium, Rangiora Baptist Church and Windsor School.

Cowles Stadium and Rolleston are now closed, however the site at Rolleston will re-open if needed.

"There is a great demand for support during a time like this and we're here to offer any assistance we can to those affected" says Ms Bennett.

The Government helpline (0800 779 997) continues to operate 24 hours a day and has received 40,398 calls.

Those calls have been for financial assistance, advice on offering donations, locating relatives, and asking about food water, power.

"We would encourage people to call the helpline to take the strain off those Work and Income offices that are operating says Ms Bennett.

Anyone with offers of help can email:
earthquakehelp@msd.govt.nz