Singing and smiles with NZ Idol Judge, Megan Alatini, at Barnardos Big Toddle

Singing and smiles were the order of the day when NZ Idol Judge Megan Alatini joined the youngsters from Mangere in their Barnardos Big Toddle this morning.

Megan and the children sang as they walked, with teachers and parents, from Barnardos Early Learning Centre in Mangere to their local leisure centre for a sponsored obstacle course. She then presented medals to all who took part before heading back to the Early Learning Centre for an early lunch and some more singing…including a song from Megan’s True Bliss days.

Megan, a long-time supporter of Barnardos and mother of three, said she was involved with the Big Toddle because: “I feel very passionate about children. It’s a priority to be involved with children and organisations such as Barnardos which put children first, because children shape the future of our country.”

She said she was right behind supporting families in the community so that all children could have the good start in life they deserved. She also relayed her pride at being from south Auckland, and her wish to support the community she was raised in.

Nancy McCartney, the Early Learning Centre’s Head Teacher, said the children had really enjoyed their morning and time with Megan.

“It was brilliant to have Megan there. She was very comfortable mixing and mingling with the children. It was also great to see so much support from our parents and others in the community for Barnardos and its work with children and families.”

The Barnardos Big Toddle in Mangere was the first of more than 150 sponsored walks/events for under-five year olds taking place nationwide during November. Money raised will help Barnardos help children in need through its child and family services, such as its Family Support Service, parenting courses, domestic violence counselling, Foster Care and Children’s Contact Services.

Last year Barnardos worked with more than 10,000 children and their families in communities across the country.

ENDS

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