Shelterbag Christmas Appeal: A Call to Rotary Clubs Across Aotearoa

As we approach the season of giving, Rotary has an opportunity to make a direct, tangible difference in the lives of New Zealanders experiencing homelessness. This Christmas, we invite Rotarians to support the Shelterbag Project—a practical, life-changing initiative already gaining momentum across Auckland and now ready for nationwide distribution.
 
What is a Shelterbag?

A Shelterbag is a lightweight, waterproof, insulated portable shelter that provides immediate comfort and protection for people sleeping rough. Designed for harsh weather and made from durable materials, it offers warmth, safety, and dignity—especially vital as we continue to face housing insecurity in communities throughout New Zealand. Some Downtown Auckland Rotary Club members are already donating their time including securing better shipping terms and free warehouse storage in Auckland prior to distribution around the country. 
 
The Shelterbag Story featured on TVNZ+ Seven Sharp, (Tuesday 18 November). Log in to TVNZ to watch it here: https://www.tvnz.co.nz/shows/seven-sharp/episodes/s2025-e191
 

How You Can Give a Shelterbag This Christmas

Each Shelterbag costs $150, but donations of any amount are warmly appreciated. Even small contributions combine to fund additional units.

To Donate via Bank Transfer, please make charitable donations to:

ROZOPS Ltd – Special Projects
06-0193-0905286-007

  • Particulars: Shelterbag

  • Reference: Your Club Name or Individual Name

To Donate Online in $10 increments click this link to the Rotary Oceania Shelterbag webpage: https://rotaryoceania.zone/shop/shelterbags-239#attr=

Donation Receipts

All individual donations will receive a receipt, enabling a 33% IRD donations rebate.

Local Support and Nationwide Impact

The Shelterbag initiative is already being supported by key Auckland service providers who see the urgent need firsthand, including:

  • LinkPeople – linkpeople.co.nz

  • Visionwest – visionwest.org.nz

  • Auckland City Mission – aucklandcitymission.org.nz

  • Kahui Tu Kaha – kahuitukaha.co.nz

  • The Salvation Army – salvationarmy.org.nz

  • Lifewise – lifewise.org.nz

These agencies will be among the organisations helping distribute Shelterbags to those who need them most—ensuring donations translate quickly into practical help.

Together, We Can Bring Comfort and Dignity This Christmas

A Shelterbag may seem simple, but for someone sleeping rough, it can make the difference between vulnerability and safety, between cold nights and a sense of shelter.

This Christmas, let’s come together as Rotarians to support this important humanitarian project.

Thank you for helping bring warmth and hope to those who need it most.