Presbyterian Support Upper South Island

15/06/2026

Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

Respect. Dignity. Connection. These are more than just words, they are fundamental rights that every older person deserves. ❤️❤️❤️

In New Zealand, it is estimated that 1 in 10 older people experience some form of abuse, yet many cases go unreported. Abuse can be emotional, financial, physical, sexual, or neglect, and often occurs at the hands of someone the person knows and trusts.

Through our Enliven services, volunteers, clubs, and programmes, we help create opportunities for older people to maintain independence, build meaningful relationships, and continue contributing their wisdom and experience.

Today is a reminder to check in on the older people in our lives. A conversation, a visit, or simply taking the time to listen can make a real difference.

If you are concerned about an older person, or need advice and support, Age Concern's Elder Abuse Response Service is available on 0800 32 668 65.

Together, we can help create communities where older people are treated with the respect, dignity, and care they deserve.

14/06/2026

💙 National Volunteer Week | Celebrating the people who make a difference

This National Volunteer Week, we want to say a heartfelt thank you to each and every volunteer who supports, or has supported, Presbyterian Support Upper South Island.

Our volunteers contribute more than 25,000 hours each year across our communities. Whether they're providing transport, helping with programmes, offering companionship, lending a hand behind the scenes, or sharing their professional skills, every volunteer brings something unique and valuable.

The time, care, experience, and kindness our volunteers give helps strengthen our services and creates meaningful connections for the people we support.

No two volunteers are the same. Each person brings their own skills, personality, and perspective, helping us build stronger, more connected communities across the Upper South Island.

To all our volunteers, past and present, thank you. Your generosity, commitment, and compassion make a real difference every day.

Ngā mihi nui. 💙

12/06/2026

Meet the people behind the support 💙

For many older people, staying connected to their community can make all the difference to their wellbeing.

As Enliven Community Services Coordinator, Catherine Jordan helps create opportunities for older people to build friendships, stay active, and feel a sense of belonging.

From HomeShare gatherings to social outings and support programmes, Catherine is passionate about helping people stay connected and continue doing the things they enjoy.

Hear more about Catherine and what inspires her work: https://bit.ly/PSUSIEnlivenCommunity

10/06/2026

Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference. 🌟

Thanks to a generous donation of 100 distraction bags, children and families in Ashburton have something to help create moments of calm during difficult situations.

Read more here: https://bit.ly/BrightMomentsConnect

08/06/2026

Every young person deserves someone in their corner. 💛

When Mia* was struggling with addiction and trauma, having someone who listened, encouraged her, and believed in her helped change her future.

Today, many young people and whānau across our communities are facing challenges they cannot navigate alone.

This winter, we're raising funds so more local people can access the support, encouragement, and practical help they need to move forward.

Read Mia's story and learn how your support can make a difference.
https://bit.ly/PowerofPositiveSupport

When Mia* first connected with us, she was 16 and running out of options. Far from home, she had come to Christchurch for residential treatment, living in a supported environment

08/06/2026

“I didn’t really believe things could get better.”

At just 16 years old, Mia* arrived in Christchurch feeling overwhelmed, alone, and unsure of what her future would look like.

With encouragement and support from her Youth Coach, Lani*, things slowly began to change.

This winter, we’re sharing Mia’s story and raising funds to help local children, young people, and whānau find hope, stability, and support through difficult times.

Read Mia’s story and learn how your support can help create brighter futures:- https://bit.ly/PowerofPositiveSupport

When Mia* first connected with us, she was 16 and running out of options. Far from home, she had come to Christchurch for residential treatment, living in a supported environment

04/06/2026

Here's your Friday reminder that good things are happening in our communities. 💛

Our Winter Connect newsletter features stories of hope, resilience, kindness, and connection from across the Upper South Island.

Take a few minutes to enjoy the latest edition here:-https://bit.ly/ConnectWinterNews

If you'd like a printed copy, we'd be happy to send one out. Just get in touch via email - [email protected].

29/05/2026

There was something really special about seeing our community come together for this year’s Pink Ribbon Breakfast at our Rangiora Centre 💗

Over shared kai, conversations, raffle tickets, baking, and generous donations, we raised an incredible $1,061 for breast cancer support and research, more than double the $500 goal we had hoped for.

This event was a beautiful reflection of what community can look like, people supporting one another with kindness, generosity, and genuine care.

A heartfelt thank you to the local businesses who helped make the morning possible:

🌸 Mitre 10 MEGA Rangiora
🌸 New World Rangiora
🌸 Unichem Medical Corner Pharmacy
🌸 Lunana's Rangiora
🌸 Carters Tyre Service Rangiora
🌸 Town Hall Cinemas

Thank you also to everyone who donated, baked, volunteered, and showed up in support. Every act of kindness helped create a morning filled with connection, aroha, and community spirit. 💕

25/05/2026

People volunteer for many reasons. 💛

To give back. To stay connected. To learn new things. To meet others. To feel part of something meaningful.

But no matter the reason, the impact is real.

Every conversation, shared laugh, and act of kindness helps someone feel seen, supported, and less alone.

To our incredible volunteers, thank you for helping create communities where people feel they belong.

If you are interested in giving back, we have a range of volunteer opportunities available across the Upper South Island where your time and care can make a real difference. ✨

https://psuppersouth.org.nz/get-involved/volunteer