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‘In Need' event giving back for nine years
Melissa Aitken is looking forward to meeting new people at the 18th Southlanders In Need event in Invercargill. PHOTO: NINA TAPU
A passion to give is once again bringing people together to help those most in need.
For nine years Melissa Aitken, driven by her desire to help others, has been organising an annual Southlanders in Need day.
This year's event, planned for next month, will once again see dozens of Southlanders provide free services to up to 1000 vulnerable people.
"All of my helpers [say] . . . it's their most favourite day of the year, [because] they get to give back to [their] community, " she said.
Ms Aitken said she had always had a passion for helping people and was grateful to her helpers for volunteering their services and time for the initiative.
Free haircuts, massages and health checks would be among services available on the day.
Fire and Emergency Invercargill staff would be taking registrations for free smoke alarm installations.
The Zonta Women's Club and a mobile dental service led by dentist Manu Aroha Walker would be on site.
Southlanders are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items for grocery bag gifts.
This week, people can start dropping off donations of food and clothing to the Southland Express office at 5 The Crescent, Invercargill until, noon, Friday, July 25.
Southlanders In Need will be held from 1pm-3.30pm, Sunday, July 27, at Aurora College gymnasium, Tramway Rd, Invercargill.
For more information view Ms Aitken's social media page Free Haircuts/Services For Southlanders In Need or call her on 027 533-3600.
