Among the many groups helping those affected by Christchurch’s devastating earthquake is the Office of Ethnic Affairs. Their telephone interpreting service, Language Line, is available to the help lines which is one way of ensuring everyone can get the help and information they need.
The Director of the Office of Ethnic Affairs, Mervin Singham said: “In times like this it is essential that people with little or no English are able to access information, advice and entitlements in the same way that any other New Zealanders can. The Office of Ethnic Affairs is committed to ensuring that this occurs”.
“It is business as usual for interpreting with government agencies. The numbers below offer Language Line and assistance in your language. Other agencies which use Language Line and the list of languages can be found at www.languageline.govt.nz,” said Mervin Singham.
Organisations where people can donate include major banks which have opened their services to people who want to help. They are:
• Kiwibank
• ANZ, National Bank,
• BNZ
• ASB
• TSB.
People can phone 0900 33 200 to make an automatic $20 donation, freetext to Quake 555 to donate $5, donate online at www.redcross.org.nz or mail a cheque payable to New Zealand Red Cross, Canterbury Earthquake Appeal,
Freepost 232690, PO Box 12-140 Thorndon, Wellington 6144
• ACC Claims 0800 101 996
• Christchurch City Council 03 941 8999
• Work and Income 0800 559 009
• Child, Youth & Family 0508 275 293
• Housing New Zealand Corporation 0800 801 601
• Earthquake Commission 0800 326 243
• Inland Revenue 0800 473 566
• Heathline 0800 611 116