This June, as part of Appeal Week, we asked our community to donate old phones and chargers for the whānau we support. This helps ensure that whānau have a reliable way to call for help when they need it most — providing a vital lifeline in the aftermath of family harm.
We want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supported our phone drive — including Mico, who generously donated old staff phones. Ngā mihi nui 💛
We were also inspired by Jono, a Medbury student who took action to support people in our community in a simple but powerful way.
Jono led a collection drive for old phones and chargers. These are items many of us had tucked away at home, but they can play a vital role in keeping someone safe.
“I was going to go around the school to all the classes, tell them about it, and put posters up,” he said. “I asked the Medbury boys to bring in their old phones and chargers, and their parents’ old ones too.”
His motivation was clear. Having access to a working phone is not just about convenience. It can be a lifeline.
“It’s one of the only ways to help people who need to get a message safely,” Jono explained.
He was also passionate about raising awareness that anyone can be affected. “Violence in homes can be anywhere. It could be your neighbours. It could be anyone.”
Being part of the initiative was deeply rewarding for Jono. “It made me feel good, because it felt like I was helping other people, even if I wasn’t meeting them.”
His efforts are a powerful reminder that small actions, like donating an old phone, can make a real and meaningful difference.
Thank you again to everyone who got involved — from sharing our appeal posts to donating phones. We’re so grateful to have your support.
Working phones can be donated at any time of year. If you have an old one lying around — or if you own a business and aren’t sure what to do with your old staff phones — please consider donating them to Home & Family. Your contribution helps ensure whānau have a safe way to reach support when they need it most.
To arrange a drop off at Our House, call 027 224 0816 or email [email protected].
