Southern residents are feeling the cold as winter has arrived in the south, but imagine how cold it would feel for refugees coming here from the warmth of Colombia.

That is the predicament facing former refugees settling in Invercargill and it’s the catalyst for a drive to secure warm jackets, hats, gloves and thermals for the new arrivals.

The New Zealand Red Cross (NZRC) Invercargill settlement team is partnering with the Rotary Club of Wānaka to collect and provide winter clothing and bedding for the former refugees.

“One of the best parts of my job is working with other Kiwi volunteers to welcome former refugees, and helping them settle in a new place,” New Zealand Red Cross volunteer team lead Darren Frazer said.

“It’s amazing to team up with the Wānaka Rotary Club, we are really grateful for their help.”

NZRC also provides bedding for settlement families, and is currently short of winter sheets, blankets, duvets and covers for both single and double beds.

Rotary Club of Wānaka spokesperson John Milburn said the club was happy to assist with the collection of winter clothing and bedding.

“Coming from warmer climates these folk tend to be underprepared for the rigours of a southern winter and we are confident the people of Wānaka will be generous in donating items that they no longer need,“ he said.

To donate items please contact John Milburn on 027 228 4625 or via email at [email protected].

Items will be transported to Invercargill and distributed to new families as they arrive.

PHOTO: Supplied