Christmas gifts with a difference

MEDIA RELEASE
Monday, 3 December 2007

Can't face the Christmas crush?
Christmas gifts with a difference

If you’re finding Christmas shopping a chore this year, why not spice it up by buying a sheep farm for dad, an orchard for mum, or perhaps start a library for your best friend?

These are just some of the options available in ChildFund New Zealand’s 2007 Gifts that Grow Christmas catalogue. The catalogue allows Kiwis to give truly meaningful gifts in the name of their family or friends. The purchaser receives a special gift card to give their friend or family member, explaining what has been purchased on their behalf and how it will benefit a child or family in need in a developing country.

The gifts available in the Christmas 2007 Gifts That Grow catalogue are more than just treats. Each gift creates a new opportunity for a needy child and their family, improving their health, living environment and creating hope for the future. It can even save their life.

ChildFund New Zealand National Director Paul Brown says Kiwis took to the concept with enthusiasm last Christmas, purchasing more than 3,000 gifts from ChildFund New Zealand’s first Gifts That Grow selection.

“The most popular item was a gift of ten baby chickens which, when grown, gave the recipient families eggs to eat and a surplus to sell at the local market,” says Mr Brown.

“The chickens are back this year, as well as a new range of more than 60 fun, exciting and practical options for generous Kiwis to choose from, with something for everyone and every budget. Giving a Gift That Grows this Christmas, on behalf of yourself, your family or friends, helps a child, their family and entire community to grow."

For more information about Gifts that Grow, and other ChildFund New Zealand programmes, visit www.childfund.org.nz or phone 0800 223 111.

ENDS

ChildFund New Zealand
ChildFund New Zealand is an international child development organisation which works in 54 countries, assisting 11.4 million children and family members regardless of race, creed or gender.

ChildFund New Zealand, a member of ChildFund International works for the well-being of children by supporting locally led initiatives that strengthen families and communities, helping them overcome poverty and protect the rights of their children.

ChildFund's comprehensive programmes incorporate health, education, nutrition and livelihood interventions that sustainably protect, nurture and develop children. ChildFund works in any environment where poverty, conflict and disaster threaten the well-being of children.

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