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2 September 2005

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) has teamed up with Save the Children to help tackle child poverty.

 

Save the Children New Zealand (SCNZ) was named the official charity of the NZRU and the All Blacks today ahead of the All Blacks’ Captain’s Run at Eden Park, their final training session before Saturday’s Philips Tri Nations Test match against Australia.

 

NZRU General Manager Corporate Services, Therese Walsh, says the NZRU and the All Blacks are positive about the long-term benefits of a partnership with Save the Children.

 

“Child poverty is a major issue internationally and Save the Children is playing a significant role in generating awareness and directly helping children in need.  We’re committed to helping Save the Children through this new partnership.

 

“If we can help in any way to put a spotlight on the problems children face while growing up in poverty, then we are helping to solve them.”

 

Walsh says the appointment of an official charity is a first for the NZRU and the All Blacks, and is part of the Union’s desire to make a positive contribution to the community, and also reflects the All Blacks’ desire to give a focus to the needs of children both in New Zealand and around the world.

 

“Today’s announcement follows on from our involvement with Save the Children around the AXA International Sevens earlier this year to raise funds for Save the Children’s Indian Ocean Tsunami Appeal.”

 

The NZRU also supports The Rugby Foundation, which supports injured rugby players, and Walsh says the Union and the All Blacks will appoint another Official Charity with a focus on domestic activity to accompany the international partnership with Save the Children.

 

Acting Executive Director of Save the Children New Zealand, Liz Gibbs, says a partnership with one of New Zealand’s most high profile organisations is a huge opportunity to raise awareness of the situation for children living in poverty, and what New Zealanders can do to help.

 

“More action is needed at all levels to make child poverty history – both in New Zealand and overseas. The All Blacks’ support of Save the Children programmes will help us to reduce poverty and fight for children’s rights in over 120 countries,” she says.

 

The All Blacks will give their support to Save the Children’s Annual Appeal in October this year.  

 

For further information, call us on 04 385 6847.

 

ENDS