Scales see funds dive

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 306, 26 September 1989, Page 5

Scales see funds dive

by

pffllippa

french

Waiouru Plunket nurse Judy Hall has had a lot of use from her new digital scales since the Plunket purchased them at the beginning of August.

The new Avery digital scales replace the old 'fish' scales that have been used for many years. Judy says the new scales are more comfortable for babies as well as being a more accurate method of weighing which is important, especially with sick babies where the slightest weight change can mean a great deal. The scales cost the Waiouru Plunket $1200.00 which "has made our bank balance take a dive" says plunket president Henry Wichman.

The plunket hopes they will cover the cost of the scales in the annual appeal to be held on 16 October and also from a flea market which is scheduled to be held early in November. Last year Waiouru people gave generously and over $500.00 was given to the plunket

"and hopefully we will get a good response again this year" says Henry. All money collected in Waiouru stays in the community and goes towards the purchase of new equipment for the plunket nurse or covers costs like telephone and power bills or running expenses, which amount to over $500 a month. Judy Hall lives at Mangaweka and comes to Waiouru three times a week visiting between

12 and 16 mothers and babies. She says Waiouru mothers are keen to learn and are fairly health conscious. Judy says she has a lot of support and help from the plunket committee and they do an excellent job. Another service run by plunket is car seat hire and because of the high demand for the car seats, Henry says it is important parents reqtiest the seats well in advance and not to wait until babies are born.

He said in November there are 20 babies due to be born in Waiouru. Plunket are lending car seats from other areas for this time and Judy will have help from a Taihape nurse visiting mums them. Any person who would like to join the hardworking plunket committee or volunteer to help in the door to door annual appeal, President Henry Wichman would like to hear from you. Phone Waiouru 56-767.