(The Rotorua Hospital Auxiliary members are buzzing about their meeting place at the Rotorua Trust boardroom.)
Once a month, the Rotorua Trust boardroom becomes a hive of activity as members of the Rotorua Hospital Auxiliary gather.
The Auxiliary members sew, crochet and knit woollen garments for babies and elderly folk at Rotorua Hospital. Changes at the hospital meant the members had to look for a new meeting place and were grateful when the Rotorua Trust was able to offer the use of its boardroom.
A few members left during the changeover and the group was about 20 members when the shift was made. However, membership has now risen to 38 people, says Shirley Manks, secretary/treasurer, Rotorua Hospital Auxiliary
The group averaged about 140 articles a month over the past year, ranging from very small items for tiny babies to larger items, such as shoulder wraps and lap blankets to help keep elderly folk warm.
The group was spending about $300 per month on wool for items but, with the extra people on board, this has gone up to $500 per month.
“That’s a lot of wool,” says Shirley, adding that the auxiliary ladies buy prudently to make the money go further.
The Rotorua Trust contributed $5,000 to help with purchases of new supplies of wool.
The members also make dolls for nippers who might be frightened about receiving injections when in hospital. Mostly the crocheted and knitted items go to the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU), the children’s ward, orthopaedic, and elderly services. District health nurses also take items out to the various outposts of the Lakes District Health Board region.
Although some people offer wool in return for just a donation, the wool is mostly bought in town wherever the best deal is available.
The Rotorua Hospital Auxiliary meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 9.30 am in the Rotorua Trust boardroom, unless the room is required by the Trust at that time.
For more information, contact:
Secretary / Treasurer on 348 7272