There have been quite a few challenges for whānau and the community with the latest COVID-19 outbreak. Some whaiora have needed extra support as they began isolating. The Community Connectors have been working hard to provide some assistance to those in need. They continue to deliver kai packages, cleaning products, Rapid Antigen Tests and required medications across Christchurch and Ashburton.

The Community Connectors can help with:

• If whānau/individuals are eligible for MSD assistance, they can work alongside them to help them get food
  grants, assistance with clothing or any bedding etc. they may need
• If whānau/individuals are not eligible for any MSD assistance and are needing food grants, assistance with clothing or any bedding etc, Community Connectors have resources to help (they must not be eligible for MSD assistance in any way)
• If the whānau/individual are needing delivery or pick-up services for groceries, medications, or other important errands they may not be able to complete, they can complete them.
• The Community Connection position is not an income-tested service. Meaning, that if a whaiora is not eligible for MSD assistance due to high income/assets, but only needs someone to help them facilitate important errands they can still step in and help.

An online form through the MSD website needs to be completed to access Community Connector assistance. Alternatively, whaiora can call the MSD Customer Service line on 0800 559 009.

• You will need two doses of the vaccine, six weeks apart
• Both doses of the vaccine are FREE and available to everyone aged 12 or over
• It does not contain the virus, or a dead or inactivated virus, or anything that can affect our DNA.
• You’ll need to stay for 15 minutes after getting vaccinated.
• Still have questions? Watch the NZ Vaccine Facts series