How it works
Because of the danger and stress of leaving a domestic violence situation, many arrive at refuges with nothing but the clothes on their back. Our packs are provided to these survivors when they enter refuge, giving them something to call their own again.
Refuges around Aotearoa place “orders” with us when their supply of packs is getting low.
Our team of volunteers pack the orders and deliver nationwide.
The packs are then distributed within the refuge for those in need.
Packed up with love & care
What goes into our packs
Our packs can differ slightly depending on the products we have available, but always contain useful essential items with a focus on giving a bit of normality in a moment of upheaval. We include a note of encouragement and strength in every pack along with a journal and pen to assist survivors in their personal journey through this time of crisis.
Donated products such as unused hotel / travel toiletries and other new special treats are also packed up as available. If you have something new to donate, remember that even one-offs go towards helping one special person who truly needs it, and will be received with appreciation.
Women's pack
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Toothbrush
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Toothpaste
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Ethique shampoo bars
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Deodorant
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Tissues
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Soap
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Disposable razor
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Sanitary items
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Toiletry bag
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Face cloth
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Hairbrush
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2x coffee sachet
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Healthy snacks
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Notebook and pen
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Extras as available (e.g. moisturiser, lip balm)
In a custom canvas tote bag (suitable for shopping)
Children's pack
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Toothbrush
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Cuddly toy
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Age specific toys
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Colouring book
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Colouring pencils
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Reading book
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Healthy snacks
In a backpack (suitable for kindy or school)
Babies pack
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Baby specific toiletries
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Bib
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Facecloth
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Wipes
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Blanket
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Baby bottle
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Hat/Beanie
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Booties
Other items may include: New baby clothes, melamine plate, baby cutlery, baby food etc.
Men's pack
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Toiletries
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Comb
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Work socks
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Drink bottle
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Razor
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Shaving cream
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Tissues
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Deodorant
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Toiletry bag
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Toothbrush
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Toothpaste
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Notebook and pen
A network delivering & housing hope
Who we work with
We work with any organisation providing support to survivors of domestic violence.
Our regular partners are Women’s Refuge and Shine, as well as the Police and hospital services around the country. We also work with independent safe houses and service providers.
...and other safe houses and support organisations
Little things that make a big difference
How we fill our packs
We highly appreciate ongoing support from some wonderful partners who regularly provide products for our packs. We are also fortunate to receive essential items from individuals and businesses. If you’re interested in donating pack supplies, please see our product donation page for more information on needed items.
Financial funding allows us to buy products we need at wholesale prices, giving us
longer lasting buying power. Most of our financial funding is thanks to individual donations, fundraisers and corporate donations, and goes towards putting together the bulk of the goods in our packs.
We occasionally receive grant funding which is used to purchase the
essential supplies in bulk at lower price points. This ensures we can stretch our funding further, filling more packs to help as many New Zealand families as possible.
Thank you to our valued product partners who offer stability by supplying ongoing essentials for our care packs.
If you’d like to become a product partner, please contact us at info@igotyourbackpack.org.nz