Every year on 20 June, we mark World Refugee Day to honour the courage of millions of people who have been forced to leave their homes. Across Aotearoa New Zealand, events large and small were held to honour refugee-background communities, amplify their voices, and encourage connections.

From earthquakes, floods, fires, and snowstorms Lavina Anderson has seen a lot in her 30 years as a disaster welfare and support volunteer. To mark her incredible service, she recently received Honorary Life Membership, awarded to people who’ve given exceptional service and dedication to Red Cross.

Ever wondered what happens once your donation leaves your doorstep? We’ve broken down what it takes to pull off the Uber x Red Cross Clothing Drive by the numbers.

Kath Cosgrove received an Honorary Life Membership, awarded to people who’ve given remarkable service and dedication to Red Cross. From earthquakes, to fires, and floods, Kath’s seen many disasters during 15 years as a disaster welfare and support volunteer.

Jaimee Astle, our Senior Web Advisor, recently attended a first aid course at our Christchurch Service Centre, not knowing that within half an hour of finishing the first day of training, she would need to use the skills she'd just learned – and twice in quick succession.