Seeking Volunteers

Lindsay Upton from Manukau East Council of Social Services (MECOSS)

If you’re interested in paying forward, here's an opportunity.

Manukau East Council of Social Services (MECOSS), is seeking volunteer drivers and companions for its Manukau East Shopping Shuttle.

Every Thursday, the shuttle takes people, who often live alone or no longer drive, to Botany Town Centre or Pakuranga Plaza for shopping and a cuppa.

Drivers are mainly responsible for arranging the times and routes for pick-ups and delivering their passengers safely.

Companion’s help clients get into and out of the vehicle and assist with seatbelts.

And if required, a walker or scooter can be booked for passengers to use at the shopping centres.

This daily-life activity has far reaching benefits for our passengers including;
1). Stimulating cognitive processes e.g. enabling passengers to ask questions when determining where items can be obtained, evaluate and compare before and after purchase, and determine value as compared to cost
2). Providing physical benefits e.g. walking around the shopping mall.
3). Function as a leisure pursuit that promotes social engagement e.g. chatting with other passengers and forming friendships.

Perhaps the most appealing aspect of shopping as a life-enriching activity is that it can be enjoyed by most people - even those who may have health problems.

When required and with a little help from our volunteers, people with mobility or transportation challenges can experience the cognitive, health, and social benefits a day on the town can provide.

For further information please call 0800 632 677.