Humanitarian Founder Celebrated – Red Cross Cake Day 

When the founder of the Red Cross, Henri Dunant won the first Nobel Peace Prize in 1901, he probably never imagined over 100 years later, that the world would still have such an ongoing need for humanitarian relief.   

The latest chapter in the continuing saga of armed conflicts is being played out in all its stark reality in news media outlets and nightly TV segments which show in gruesome detail the devastation and human suffering taking place in Ukraine.  

True to its continuing mission, the International Committee of the Red Cross, along with the United Nations, has provided shelter, water, food and medical supplies, and was recently able to provide safe passage to many civilians who had been trapped in the Azovstal Steel Works. For more information on the role of the Red Cross in the Ukraine, see https://www.redcross.org.nz/what-we-do/overseas/ukraine-humanitarian-crisis/.  

  Whether locally in response to disaster welfare support, refugee resettlement or internationally through humanitarian assistance, the fundamental principles that have been a guiding force of the Red Cross continue to influence what we do and how we go about it.  These principles are to:

• have concern for all HUMANITY
• be IMPARTIAL in all our endeavours
• remain NEUTRAL in all situations
• be INDEPENDENT so we can always act in accordance with our Principles
• promote the spirit of VOLUNTARY SERVICE
• foster UNITY
• strive for UNIVERSALITY  

Unfortunately, this year’s Annual Appeal was cancelled due to COVID, although over $430,000 was raised online, and to date $3.4 m has been raised for the Ukraine humanitarian crisis, $3.2 m for the Pacific Tsunami Appeal, and $300,000 for the Afghanistan Humanitarian appeal, all via online donations.  

The Martinborough Red Cross Group are proud to support the work of the Red Cross here at home and in international relief efforts.  Among other activities, we laid a wreath at the Anzac Day commemoration in memory of those who gave their lives for the freedoms we now enjoy.

Our most recent event was the annual Cake Day which celebrates the birth of our founder Henri Dunant who won the first Nobel Peace prize in 1901 for his humanitarian work.  Cake day is our way of giving a little back to our community, and to say thank you for your continuing support.   

While it is not a fund-raising activity as such, the generosity of our town is a constant source of inspiration, this year raising $356.70 to support Red Cross activities in the Wairarapa region and internationally.  Thanks to all in our group who baked cakes and slices for the day (see attached photo), and to P&K for letting us set up outside their door.

Martinborough Red Cross Group – Imagine the Future.

Like most voluntary organisations, it’s our members who are the heart and soul of the NZ Red Cross and our group is made up of a small, but dedicated group of volunteers.  With so many challenges around the world the work of the Red Cross is more vital than ever, and we would love to get more people involved.

Perhaps you know someone who might be interested?  Or you may be a student who is interested in Refugee Resettlement, or the Humanitarian work of the Red Cross.  If you are undertaking a Voluntary Service Award, why not consider becoming part of the Red Cross in Martinborough or the wider Wairarapa region.

If you would like to know more, please contact Mike Armour at mrameh192@gmail.com or by phone 027 9397373.

Go on, get involved, you might be surprised at the difference you can make.