Published as Issue No. 143
January 13, 2016
Community at heart and at work: This first issue for 2016 is two weeks earlier than planned. It brings people up to speed and the opportunity to get involved with the current work of a number of locals behind the scenes – helping someone in need. Their efforts make a person appreciate our little community tucked away here on the south coast.
Norman
Dave (of everywhere in Houghton Valley) reports: “Many readers of the newsletter are aware that one of our long-term residents of Houghton Valley, Peter Blackwood of Hornsey Road, arrived home recently to find his home destroyed by fire. A faulty fuse may be the cause. You can read an illustrated article about Peter’s situation here.
Many of us are asking how we can best support Peter at the very early stage. Peter’s neighbours have taken the initiative to create a website that enables people to donate money: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/petersetupfund/
Peter is very keen to find short to medium term accommodation in our neighbourhood until the insurance and rebuilding decisions are sorted out. He enjoys an independent life. Please ring Natasha if you have a sleep-out, out-room or flat that he can rent.
Some people have kindly offered to donate furniture and other items. His immediate needs will not be known until he finds short to medium term accommodation. Please ring Dave with the details of how you can be contacted and what you can offer. We will endeavour to keep you informed of what Peter needs as his future becomes clearer.”