Heart Kids have been in the community supporting children born with heart conditions, and their families, for almost 40 years. They provide a vital support network through their hospital-based Family Support team as well as around the country. There are not many places in NZ that they don’t have a presence, and they are working hard to fill those few gaps.
Helping at every step of the journey; from diagnosis, through childhood, the teenage years and into adulthood, Heart Kids NZ’s practical and emotional support is vital in helping individuals and families cope with the day-to-day challenges of living with a childhood heart condition.
By providing one to one direct support, running in-person Murmurs Coffee Groups and family events, as well as virtual workshops and presentations – our heart families are able to face the challenges associated with having a ‘heart child’ knowing they are supported and not walking this journey alone. Every year over 600 little babies are born with some type of heart defect, and they will require treatments and surgeries throughout their lives. As there is no cure or prevention – there will always be a need for Heart Kids NZ in the community.
Heart Kids NZ is the only national organisation in Aotearoa NZ dedicated to providing that support.
Heart Kids NZ receive no government funding for the services they provide and are reliant on the generosity of the New Zealand public. Thank you for supporting Heart Kids NZ with our Christmas Wrapping Collection.
Plans for the donations raised: There are over 1,000 heart families in Auckland and the money raised will be used to support these families both at home and also during hospital admissions.
Heart kids are born brave hearts, they go through so much at such a young age and still manage to smile and laugh and give cuddles. They are inspiring and beat the odds every day.