Your donation to our Manaaki Fund will help provide immediate relief for hospital kaimahi (workers) when they need it most. For some, a little extra can mean so much.

Auckland City Hospital’s health workers make a world of difference on our most challenging days, whether we’re in hospital supporting a loved one or receiving care ourselves.

It is because of this incredible staff that one of our key fundraising projects is the Manaaki Fund, a special initiative that focuses on providing extra assistance and emergency relief to health workers most impacted by crises, such as COVID-19 and Cyclone Gabrielle.

Your donation provides immediate help for kaimahi in greatest need. Many of these dedicated workers provide essential hospital support as cleaners, orderlies or kitchen staff. Without them, the clinical teams we all rely upon could not provide the best possible patient care.

“Many are not just supporting themselves and their families, but also members of their extended whānau. Most are shy to put up their hand for help. They are very grateful that you are thinking of them.” – Orderly Services Supervisor Rae Piniata (left)

The Manaaki Fund launched during COVID-19 to help those in need get quick access to food, accommodation, petrol and other necessities to ease the burden. Since then, we’ve seen an enduring need. Following Cyclone Gabrielle, over 900 hospital workers reached out for emergency relief. The support helped them recover, rebuild and meet the needs of their whānau; some lost everything. But the need does not end there.

The Manaaki Fund set up the award-winning Employee Support Centre, a place of connection for staff, which provides additional emotional and practical support for those experiencing tough times; and it is always open with a food pantry, free breakfasts and fast-track access to housing and financial help. Now, the centre needs to be sustained.

“The [centre] gives all staff the opportunity to seek the help and support they may need to get through. Feedback from staff is that they are ‘happy to have a place to just chill’. Many are also thankful for the food the Manaaki Fund has been able to provide.” ‘ Health Care Assistant, Pauline Martin (right)