Mary Waine has lived in her Christchurch home for 57 years. Her home is where Mary's children grew up and her husband died. The earthquake shattered her chimney and tore giant cracks through her home exposing her to the cold.
Recovery starts with emergency relief and continues through to long-term programs, assisting people to rebuild their lives.
Meeting that need, the New Zealand Earthquake Commission - which has been distributing funds raised by Red Cross appeals to those in need - supported a wide variety of needs of those affected. In the harsh cold of the cold months, Winter Assistance Grants were provided for the most vulnerable, those over 65 years of age, children under 5 years old, five to 18 year olds and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
The objective of these grants, for people where home insulation was compromised by the quakes, is to ease some of the financial burden on heating during the winter months.
Unlike the other grants, which have been in the form of cash payments, the winter grants were up to $400 paid directly to the electricity retailer of those eligible.
Recently out of hospital, Mary says she struggled until she received her Red Cross Winter Assistance for over those over 65 years of age.
"It's absolutely wonderful. Up until now I've had to borrow money to survive, and I have been afraid. Thank you Red Cross and those who donated, thank you."
Photo: New Zealand Red Cross