Turua Gallery is proud to once again partner with the grassroots charity Give a Kid a Blanket for its annual Fill the Truck Challenge.
Since its inception 11 years ago, Give a Kid a Blanket, founded by artists Bernie Harfleet and Donna Turtle Sarten, has delivered thousands of warm items to families across Auckland.
Their mission is simple yet powerful: no child should go to bed cold. Although its name focuses on children, the charity supports entire families by providing quality warm bedding, clothing and sleepwear to help them get through winter with dignity and care.
Turua Gallery owners Liss and Dean Wallace and their family have initially supported the charity. For the past three years, they’ve turned their gallery collection into a celebration of generosity by hosting the Fill the Truck Challenge.
Thanks to community support, they’ve filled a whole truck with warmth each year, and this May, they’re inviting the public to help them do it again.
“Together we can, and together we will,” said Liss, quoting renowned conservationist Jane Goodall.
“That quote sits at the heart of everything we’re doing. Whether you bring one pair of socks or a carload of blankets, you’re making a difference.”
Collection Dates: Now through Saturday, 24th May; donations can be dropped off at Turua Gallery, 10A Turua Street, St Heliers.
Fill the Truck Challenge Event: Saturday 24 May | 9 am–2 pm, Carpark opposite Turua Gallery, 10A Turua Street, St Heliers. Enjoy live street music from Chris Bates, followed by Jazz Patterson, and a community sausage sizzle.
What to Donate: New or excellent condition pre-loved items in all sizes:
- Blankets, sleeping bags, duvet inners and covers, sheets and pillowslips
- PJs, dressing gowns, baby sleep sacks, beanies, socks, jumpers
- Winter & rain coats
- Cots, bassinets, pushchairs, car seats (excellent condition only)
- New pillows and hot water bottles only
- Handmade quilts and knitted goodies are in demand (and are much loved as these are very cherished).
As a gallery that prides itself on making contemporary art accessible and relatable, Turua Gallery is more than just a place to view beautiful works; it’s a home for shared values.
From Twilight Viewings that welcome the community into relaxed evening exhibitions to its celebration of New Zealand’s landscapes and contemporary art and support of both emerging and established artists, Turua Gallery is committed to bringing art and kindness into everyday life.
“We believe art should be something that lives with us. That same spirit drives this annual appeal. It’s about community, creativity, and caring for one another.”
For those who want to help, now is the perfect time to clean out cupboards, sort the drawers, or head to the shops and pick up a little something that could mean a lot to someone else this winter.
‘’Let’s fill the truck, and fill hearts together.’’
