District Governor Ingrid has asked that everyone in Rotary District 9920 consider donating to the Emergency Response Kits (ERKs) project this year if not already done so.
ERKs are distributed following disasters including tsunami, cyclones and floods in Oceania and the South Pacific. The ERKs project was established in 1985 and was a District 9920 project for 20 years before it became expanded throughout New Zealand.
The supply of Box and Contents is in itself a District 9920 project and many Rotarians assist in a practical way each year by packing the kits in Auckland – hands on Rotary service.
ERKs is the only Rotary New Zealand Humanitarian service project responding to disasters in the Pacific, mostly to countries that are part of District 9920. ERKs also supports in-country economies with many of the items being manufactured in the Pacific.
90% + of all donations is spent in New Zealand with a smaller amount in Pacific countries to cover expenses incurred by in country Rotary clubs. Rotary New Zealand does not pay any commissions or royalties. ERKs is recognised by Governments throughout the Pacific who waive import duties and taxes, with local Rotary clubs taking responsibility for distribution in consultation with Disaster Management Offices.
Consistently ERKs are the first tangible support families receive after a disaster.
Throughout District 9920 the Pacific clubs are ever grateful for the support New Zealand Rotarians give in times of disaster and value this as a significant part of their community service.
In anticipation of the events of the 2018/2019 cyclone season, District Governor Ingrid wishes that all Rotarians in District 9920 donate to ERKs this year.