Responding to Cyclone Gabrielle
In the immediate aftermath of cyclone Gabrielle, Community Development and Transformation Manager, Matt Crawshaw, was on the road with a team of volunteers ready to help out.
“We watched in horror at the pictures we were seeing. We knew we could mobilize quickly and be on the hand to lend support.”
Matt’s team was based at Omahu marae where they supported the clean up of the marae, neighbours and helped load and unload food and recovery materials.
“Bishop Andrew Hedge linked us with the Marae. We were thankful for the opportunity to be there and hospitality we received through the Waiapu diocese.
“+Andrew was stoked to have us support his diocese in their hour of need. He remarked, too, how these partnerships reflect the healthy relationship between the Anglican Dioceses.”
On his return to Wellington, Matt mobilised more teams to support the cyclone response.
Matt says the BCDT staff share the same heart for mission and a passion to respond sacrifically as the Trust’s it supports.
“While we the shoe’s normally on the other foot and we support from afar. This time, it was nice to be out and about getting dirty for communities in need."
ENDS