Compassion and empathy for the refugee community was put into action by a class of "small young heroes" from Central Otago.
Roxburgh Area School year 7 and 8 pupils raised $2000 to buy winter bedding and footballs for refugees settling in Dunedin.
The pupils had been studying a unit on the plight of refugees and teacher Sarah Moore was keen for a practical element to cement the learning.
"It’s one thing to hear about their stories and to read about them, but to actually do something practical.
"It’s a heavy topic."
Yesterday the pupils visited the Red Cross Refugee Settlement Centre in Dunedin to deliver the goods and hear stories from former refugees.
"We’re very fortunate here in New Zealand to actually have a safe home and to be accepted for who we are as a person," he said.
New Zealand Red Cross volunteer programme lead Mona Tavakoli, formerly of Iran, said she was impressed by the pupils’ efforts.
"I was so surprised — I couldn’t believe the result.
"All the time and affection and effort they put in to support new Kiwi families.
"The generosity of these small young heroes, and that they put so much effort and heart and soul fundraising for us and new families — I’m speechless, I’m so grateful."
