Cheery knits in the name of charity

Cheery knits in the name of charity

Kiwis join Christmas jumper craze to raise funds for families in poverty

International aid agency Oxfam is asking Kiwis across the country to deck themselves out in a Christmas jumper or Christmas gear on Friday 12th December and make a gold coin donation to help people rise out of poverty in the Pacific and Southeast Asia.

The new seasonal celebration, called Oxmas, is a simple and fun way to spread festive cheer to families who are struggling – many through their hungry season.

Oxfam New Zealand’s Executive Director, Rachael Le Mesurier, said: “Novelty knits need not be a fashion faux pas if worn for a good cause (and a laugh!) and festive knitted sweaters, tank tops or even jolly waistcoats really will help better the opportunities for families in the Pacific and Southeast Asia. No one should have to live through another Christmas in poverty. Money raised by Kiwis through Oxmas will help build clean water supplies and enable people to grow more food to feed their families, it will protect women from violence and give children a chance at an education. This is vital, life-changing work that Kiwis make happen.”

Oxmas is supported by Kiwi celebrities Jay and Flynny from ZM’s drive show, Sacha McNeil, Jennifer Ward-Lealand, Jesse Sheehan and Shortland Street actors Grace Palmer, Kerry-Lee Dewing and Sophie McIntosh.

Workplaces and schools are being encouraged to sign up to Oxmas as a great way to have some sparkly end-of-year festive fun. From hosting a best dressed competition to a good old Kiwi barbecue, there are a heap of ways to tailor Oxmas. A big part of the day will be sharing selfies and photos on social media, using the hashtag #Oxmas.

“Oxmas is a really easy, feel-good and fun way to make a difference in people’s lives. In places like Timor-Leste, Christmas time is the hungry season, where many families go without. Oxfam’s community development programmes help them lift themselves out of poverty and into a food-secure future, and we couldn’t do that without the generosity of New Zealanders. We are so grateful for everyone who gets on board with Oxmas – the more that do, the more people that will be helped,” said Le Mesurier.

Shortland Street actor Kerry Lee Dewing said: “Get into the festive spirit this December and make a difference for our friends in the Pacific. All you have to do is wear your Christmas gear on the 12th of December and make a gold coin donation.”

Register your school or workplace online now at oxfam.org.nz/oxmas or call 0800 600 700. Oxmas resources are available online.

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