If you’ve got a little extra love to give after Valentine’s Day, get your dancing shoes on and take that heart of gold over to Memorial Hall to do a little good this Saturday.
Zumba instructor Emma Paaka is teaming up with Women’s Support Motueka to raise money for the organisation’s free counselling services, which help women affected by family harm in our community.
Each year, more than local 60 women access this service, equating to about 200 hours of counselling.
Manager Maluz Morena says that this is one of their core services, which offers a safe and confidential space for women facing family violence challenges.
“Through professional support, women can develop healthier coping strategies, regain confidence, and work toward positive change. By providing this service at no cost, WSM ensures that no woman has to navigate her struggles alone.”
This service was funded by Oranga Tamariki until June 2024 when the contract was terminated, leaving uncertainty about its future. Maluz says that, thanks to donations and local charities, the service has been able to continue.
Emma says she has never done a charity event before, and she loves supporting all things local as well as giving back to the community.
“I had heard on the radio last year that the government had removed all funding for this service, so when [manager] Maluz reached out to me I was more than willing to get behind them and raise some money to help and support local wāhine.”
Emma is in her 10th year of Zumba instruction in Motueka, and she says that absolutely everyone is welcome at Saturday’s event, whether they are Zumba regulars or first-time groovers.
The dress code is Valentine’s Day, so “think pink, hearts, red and love”, the flyer says. There will also be spot prizes and a raffle.
The event is being held on Saturday, 15 February, from 5pm-6.30pm, with doors opening at 4.30pm. Tickets cost $15 each, although any koha beyond this is gratefully received. All proceeds will go towards Women’s Support Motueka.
Contact www.facebook.com/EJZUMBAMOTUEKA for ticket sales or further information.
