After viewing uplifting presentations on service being provided to refugees in the United States, the Relief Society, a women's organisation in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Wellington, New Zealand, decided to implement service projects in their own congregations.
The women, in concert with the local Red Cross and Catholic Social Services, organized a project to accumulate donated household goods and other items that would be used to set-up kitchens in homes being supplied for refugees coming into the country.
The women were provided with a list of items that were needed and asked to bring their donations to the Christmas dinner that would be held.
On the night of the dinner as the women started to arrive with their arms full, Lisa Beech of Catholic Social Services, was overwhelmed and excited at their generosity. She told the organisers that their donations would be a "big help."
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The following week as the items were sorted, it was discovered that there were enough donations to furnish three households.
Maree Guillonta a leader in the Relief Society said, "We had the privilege of setting up a home for a refugee family who were arriving early. Without the great response from our women, the family could not have been accomodated as they arrived."
Lisa Beech, from Catholic Social Services greatfully acknowledged the donations and work. She said, "Huge enormous thanks and love to all for what you have done and are willing to do. You have been phenomenal."
The Relief Society organisation led by President Kimber Gay Goodwin, is looking forward to continuing their efforts to assist and comfort those in need.