DCH Pokhara (NZ) Charitable Trust

2012-01-13T19:48:00.000-08:00

Anyone planning on doing the AMI Round the Bays run soon might like to think about getting sponsorship to raise money for the DCH. You can manage it through the Fund raise online page. We'll help you promote it but you have to run/walk it. Great motivation knowing you're doing for the kids of Nepal :0
http://www.wellingtonroundthebays.co.nz/

DCH Charitable Trust newsletter - summer 2012

2012-01-05T18:47:00.000-08:00

Latest DCH newsletter has been sent out today - please let me know if you didn't receive it, or aren't on our mailing list and would like to be. Thanks

Seeking a sponsor for a young student

2012-01-03T18:04:00.000-08:00

Rajkumar is a young man who has been with the Destitute Children's Home in Pokhara for a number of years. He is due to sit his School Leaving exams in March 2012 and hopes to then move on to study business at tertiary level.

Rajkumar is one of the first batch of students to graduate from the home and these young people will continue to require some support - both emotional and financial - for another year or two while they adapt to life on their own outside the DCH.

Unfortunately Rajkumar's sponsors have had to withdraw their support and we are now looking for someone to assist this lovely young man as he begins a new stage of his life. Sponsorship is NZ$30 per month and is tax deductible. If you can help or know someone who is interested please let us know. Thanks

The spirit of Christmas giving

2011-12-16T16:29:00.000-08:00

The DCH Trust received a cheque today from the kids of Room 12 at Raroa Normal Intermediate School.
The children had to think of a business idea/skill that they could produce and sell at a recent market day. Part of the money went back to the school and the rest to a chosen charity.
A number chose the DCH (thanks to encouragement from their teacher and DCH child sponsor Philippa).
A bunch of wonderful letters were received along with a cheque for $81. So heartwarming to receive and truly in the spirit of Christmas.
Kia ora to the children of Room 12!

2011-12-08T12:37:00.001-08:00

As always we continue to seek people travelling to Nepal (particularly Pokhara) who may wish to take some packages of clothing and letters to the DCH children on our behalf.Parcels can be anywhere between 1-5kg in weight depending on how much spare room people have. We also seek those going to Pokhara who may be able to bring letters back to New Zealand for us. We have to do things this way due to the unreliability of the Nepalese mail service. If you know anyone please put them in touch with us. Prefer Wellington based people but happy to arrange delivery to other parts of the country.

DCH Trust in the news

2011-11-29T21:09:00.001-08:00

Here we are in the paper: http://cookstraitnews.co.nz/Click on the issue for 30 November and turn to the third page - you'll see some of the DCH committee promoting the recipe books for the kids. AND it tells you how to buy them :)

Dates for your diary - come along and support us

2011-11-15T22:43:00.001-08:00

The DCH Trust will be having stalls at the Hill St Farmers market, Thorndon on Sat. 26 November 8.30-12.30 and again at the Thorndon fair the following Sunday, 4th December.We will be selling our recipe books and bags from Nepal to raise money for our ongoing support of the Destitute Children's Home in Pokhara, Nepal.Please come along and support us - our books and bags make great presents - Christmas or otherwise.All are limited in number so whether you buy a book or give a woven bag the chances are it will be a unique gift.All purchases support the children of Nepal.

Message from Nepal

2011-10-07T17:07:00.001-07:00

Mina writes: "WE WISH YOU HAPPY VIJAYA DASHAMI We hope that you are fine. We all are fine. Children are enjoying their festival. It is great time for them. They looks very very happy"

2011-10-06T19:13:00.000-07:00

A Destitute Children’s Home Charitable Trust Fundraiser Saturday 29 October1pm – 4pm TawaStarting to think about Christmas gifts?Do you want to buy locally and ethically?Always needing to buy birthday cards or gift wrap?Wanting a fun afternoon out post-school hols and RWC?Then come along and enjoy a leisurely hour or two browsing a selection of stationery, jewellery and other items in support of the Destitute Children’s Home, Pokhara, Charitable Trust.Enjoy a coffee, and browse:· Annadele’s display of delightful Phoenix products – new Xmas range available· Claudine’s beautiful handcrafted jewellery items – an amazing range of colours and styles · DCH’s popular recipe book and colourful bags from Nepal now available.The lead up to Christmas gets busy and stressful so come and look at the display, buy a few gifts and enjoy coffee and cake all while supporting a super cause.Then all you have to do is make your decisions in your own time, place your order and a percentage of all sales goes direct to the DCH.The more we sell on the day, the more the Destitute Children’s Home benefits.This is a fun way of stocking up on those necessary cards in a casual, laid back environment and you support a good cause at the same time.Sales are by cash and cheque. Bring a friend, your mum, your daughters, or encourage your workmates along.For catering purposes please rsvp to Linda– 383-6931 by Friday October 28 or email dchpokhara (@) gmail.comOnce you’ve RSVP’d we’ll send out the address.

2011-09-24T15:03:00.001-07:00

Photos from the recent Children's Day (Bal Divas) birthday party held at the DCH in Pokhara

Now You're cooking - vol 2. Fundraiser cookbookH

2011-09-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

We are thrilled to announce our new cookbook - Now You're Cooking vol. 2 has been printed and is available for purchase.Copies are $12 each or $10 each for two or more copies. We also have a few copies of vol. 1 left so you are welcome to mix and match your purchases. Postage will be additional.The book is A5 size, 64pp and has approx. 115 recipes with an index.We wish to thank the following for their input: All those who contributed recipes (You know who you are and you're credited in the book!), Jill for the index; Lesley for the final proof-read and edit; and Dickon and Nikki at Wakefields Digital for the super speedy service in producing the proof and printing and delivery.If you'd like to order a copy / copies please get in touch with us at dchpokhara (at) gmail (dot) com (Yes the email address is in code, but you're smart enough to work it out). You may also order copies by phoning NZ 04-383-6931. Postage depends on quantities ordered.All proceeds from the sale of this book, along with vol 1 go towards supporting the children of the Destitute Children's Home in Pokhara, Nepal.We'll also have copies at the World Food and Craft fair at the Wellington Town Hall tomorrow between 10am and 3pm. Look for the prayer flags.

International Food and craft fair - Wellington Town hall 24 Sept.

2011-09-11T01:53:00.000-07:00

We will be having a stall at the International Food fair in the Wellington Town hall on Sat 24 September (10 –3pm).
We’ll be selling the cookbooks – vol 1 and a selection of bags from the Chetana Woman Skill Development in Pokhara. We have just had a new shipment delivered and there is a great range of colours in our most popular styles. Bags are selling for $30 and are well made. They also come in a great range of colours so you should be able to find something to support your international rugby team of choice :)

Come in and see us!

Update from Nepal

2011-09-03T23:41:00.000-07:00

Mina writes: "The children were not well last few weeks because of viral fever.i was busy looking after the children but they are getting much better now. I hope that you are fine. We have new teacher with us. He is mr krishna koli. He helped us in looking after children. He work from morning to evening. As for the three student of grade 10 we are planning to send them to school hostel for the best result. Probably they will be going to hostel after Dashain ...."

News from Nepal

2011-08-18T16:55:00.000-07:00

Mina writes: "We have received the money. Thank you very much and big thank to all the supporters for the teacher. He will be coming from this Wednesday. Yes, we have new children. He is Roman ...I will write you more about him and will send you the photograph.
I have good news for you. All the children pass the exam with good marks. I am sure that you are happy by the progress of children. ….Many makes promisses and after we do not hear from them. But you are the only one who is really working hard to make children bright future. Thank you very much".

Bal Divas/Children’s Day in Nepal – September 14

2011-08-18T16:52:00.000-07:00

Children’s day is approaching in Nepal. For the kids of the DCH this is the day they celebrate their birthday. This is because in a society where there is limited literacy, and little known about the background of some of our children this is a standard date they can use to mark their age.

If you would like to make a donation please contact us for further details. You are also welcome to send an email to your sponsored child via Mina or just a Happy Birthday greeting to all the children.

Bal Divas/Children’s Day in Nepal – September 14

http://aglobalworld.com/holidays-around-the-world/bal-divas-childrens-day-nepal/

The DCH Trust's new logo

2011-08-08T01:14:00.000-07:00

What do you think of it? Feedback has been favourable and the committee are really pleased with it. We think it so neatly encompasses the relationship between the Trust here in New Zealand and the Destitute Children's Home in Pokhara, Nepal.

We would like to thank Patrick H., very very much for generously responding to our advertisment seeking someone with graphic design skills, and offering nothing but good karma for doing the work!

Patrick's comments on completion were that "It's been a very real project" to work on.

Dhanyabhad Patrick.

And the winner is ......

2011-08-08T01:12:00.000-07:00

Belinda D of PNth who won the draw of two nights accommodation in Paraparaumu for sending us a couple of recipes for the forthcoming fundraiser book.
Thank you Belinda - and thank you to all those who submitted recipes. The book is in the final editing stages prior to printing.
We're looking forward to bringing you a great new book in time for Xmas.

Check out the Lovely wee days blog

2011-07-25T15:06:00.001-07:00

Need to mention the blog site: Lovely wee days at: http://lovelyweedays.blogspot.com/Check them out - they've been giving us big support in gathering recipes and even used a copy of the first vol of Now you're cooking as a prize.
Thanks Libby and Rebecca.

Still time for recipes

2011-07-25T14:30:00.000-07:00

if you haven't got your recipes in for the DCH fundraising cookbook yet then please do so quickly.
July 31 the cut off date. If there's not enough recipes by then we don't publish - project over and we don't raise the funds we need to help the home in Pokhara.
So please, send them in, and ask around others you know for their favourite recipes - all funds raised go to supporting the home.
You can also post hard copies to the DCH Trust, PO Box 315, WELLINGTON 6140.
But be quick!

Speaker available

2011-07-25T14:23:00.000-07:00

Talking to the Petone Rotary Club tonight about the work of the DCH and the Trust. If anyone else is interested in having us along to speak to a similar group just let us know.

Update from Pokhara

2011-07-21T13:41:00.000-07:00

From Mina:
[The children] have finished their first term exam a few days ago. They are on holiday for 15 days. They are enjoying their time by dancing, playing, watching t.v.etc. They are enjoying rainy season too.
We hope that you are fine and all our NZ family. We have got computer for children. Now,they will be in touch with their family from Nz. I am sure that you are happy to know it. …
Puja, Ganesh and Rajkumar is going to leave next year. They will be living in Pokhara. Puja wants to study nursing , Ganesh wants to study Sociology and Rajkumar want to studies business.

Link to Claudine's jewellery

2011-07-07T20:06:00.000-07:00

Although there will be range available for purchase on the day you may like to check out some of the things Claudine has been making lately.
http://www.claudinesbeadedjewellery.com/home.html

DCH fundraiser - coffee, cake, cards and Claudine's jewellery

2011-07-07T20:00:00.000-07:00

Yes it seems early but the DCH Charitable Trust is holding a mini-market fundraiser on Saturday 29 October, 1.30-4.30

Last year's Coffee, cake and cards will be joined this year, for the first time by Claudine's beaded jewellery.

Held at a private home in Tawa, Wellington this event is invitation only.
If you would like to attend please email Linda at dchpokhara(at)gmail.com and further details will be sent out to you nearer the time.

On display will be Phoenix Trading's new Christmas card range (as well as other items in their lovely range of cards, wrapping papers etc), as well as a range of gorgeous hand-crafted beaded jewellery by Claudine's beaded jewellery, and a selection of bags from the Chetana Women's Collective in Pokhara, Nepal.

Come along and get some of your Christmas shopping out of the way early. Browse, buy and bring a friend. Coffee and cake provided.

Money raised on the day goes to providing for the children of the Destitute Children's Home in Pokhara, Nepal.

Cook Strait news item on WHS visit to the DCH

2011-06-27T22:56:00.000-07:00

Check out the newspaper item regarding the Wellington High School's trip to Nepal and their visit to the DCH
http://issuu.com/the.star/docs/211180cs

Come and see us at the Hill St Farmers Market 25/Jun

2011-06-13T01:16:00.000-07:00

The DCH will be having a stall at the Hill Street Farmers Market - Midwinter Arts and Crafts Market on Saturday 25 Jun 2011.
Time: 8.30 - 12.30 Loaves and Fishes Hall, St Paul's Cathedral, Hill Street
Come and see us!

Photos from WHS recent visit to Pokhara and the DCH

2011-06-10T22:13:00.000-07:00

Names L-R: to the best of my ability but not sure I've got them all correct. The kids have all grown a bit since I saw them last.
Standing in back: Sudip (brown hoodie); Ganesh (dark shirt); Subash (brown); Anish (head turned); Navraj (white); Kamal (blue); Ram or Laxman (near identical twins); Ghatendra (red); (possibly Hom obscured behind Ghatendra); Hari (purple); Shrijana (far back); Puja (end); Dev raj in front of Puja; Sunil in dark shirt betwen Ghatendra and Devraj.
Front row: L-R Laxman or Ram; Sabina?; Ramesh?; Sumitra; ?? with partially obscured face; Amitra behind; Deepti; Anjeli on end.

A group of senior students (plus one teacher) Wellington High School recently visited Pokhara and made a special effort to visit the Destitute Children's Home on behalf of the trust here in Wellington. The group took with them clothing and letters to the children from their sponsors. In return they brought letters back for us and passed along these photos.

Boudhanath

2011-06-10T21:59:00.001-07:00

Boudhanath
A must visit site in Kathmandu.

Poon Hill

2011-06-10T21:59:00.000-07:00

Poon Hill
This is on the Gandruk-Ghorepani trek in the Annapurnas and also accessible from Pokhara.

Parahawking over Pokhara

2011-06-10T21:58:00.000-07:00

Parahawking over Pokhara
Pokhara is the centre for paragliding in Nepal. For added interest you can have hawks accompanying your flight.

Annapurna Base Camp

2011-06-10T21:57:00.000-07:00

Annapurna Base Camp
Great footage from Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). Pokhara is the jumping off point for this trek

WHS trip to Nepal and visit to DCH

2011-05-08T23:46:00.001-07:00

Some photos from the recent trip made by Wellington High School students to Pokhara. The group was kind enough to transport some clothing and letters to the DCH from the sponsors here in New Zealand (and bring us back some letters from the children). The photos show the WHS students presenting bundles of clothing to the DCH children.

Art work by DCH children

2011-05-07T19:45:00.000-07:00

Letters have recently been received by us from the children at the DCH. The children like to draw and here are examples of some of their art work. Nepal has recently celebrated it's New year - they run a different calendar to western countries therefore the children are celebrating 2068.

Kathmandu Blues

2011-05-05T13:19:00.000-07:00

Costa Bote's 2010 movie on the Himalayan Blues Festival in KTM is screening at the Film Archive (cnr Ghuzness and Taranaki Sts) tonight (Fri) and tomorrow (Sat 7 May) at 7pm (90 mins). Cost $8
Promises "a sensory impression of the country and its people - from the teeming streets and sacred sites of Kathmandu to a jungle elephant ride"

Recipes still required

2011-04-25T18:15:00.001-07:00

Thanks to those who have been sending their recipes in, and asking others as well. Our book is growing but we still need MORE! if you have a favourite recipe you'd like to see included in our next fundraising cook book, please get it in to us now. Doesn't matter the format, we can retype if necessary. if you want to, please add a little bit about the history of the recipe or why your family likes it.
All funds raised from sales of the book go to the Destitute Children's Home in Pokhara, Nepal. So a little bit of effort from you means a lot to us.

News from Nepal

2011-04-19T13:28:00.000-07:00

From Mina: "I have good news for you. All the children have pass in their exam. I am sure that you must be happy."
We are! Feel free to email Mina and congratulate the kids on their success :)

Happy new year from Nepal

2011-04-14T22:51:00.000-07:00

From Mina, Shyam and the DCH children: Happy New Year 2068. We pray to God for your good health, successful dream and good relationships with everyone.
We are all fine. We hope that you are also fine. Children are waiting for good celebration. Everyone is enjoying their days. We hope that everything is Okay there".

Call for recipes

2011-04-14T22:50:00.000-07:00

Submit your recipes for our next cook book & go in the draw to win 2 nights by the beach in Paraparaumu. All funds raised from sales of the book go to supporting the DCH in Pokhara. So share those family favourites with us - we're not looking for fancy Michelin/Master chef type dishes - more practical Alison Holst style. All types of recipes welcome - starters, soups, mains, vege, gluten free, desserts and preserves.

Happy Holi

2011-03-17T18:12:00.000-07:00

Message from Mina: "The children are busy in their studies for the final exam and they are waiting for the colour festival Holi. Happy Holi"
More about Holi at : http://www.holifestival.org/holi-calendar.html

Reminder to sponsors .....

2011-03-17T14:24:00.001-07:00

Don't forget to get your letters to your sponsors child to us by Sunday 3 April for delivering to the group going to Pokhara. A little note, postcard, photo etc from you to your sponsored child is all that is needed to let them know you're thinking of them.
The group will bring back letters from the kids to you when they return and we'll deliver them to you when they arrive in May.

Also - anyone wishing to purchase spring bulbs for planting now - percentage of sales goes to the DCH Trust - all orders in by Sunday 27 March. Thanks.

A child in need of sponsorship

2011-03-11T13:32:00.001-08:00

The DCH have taken in a new child. Her name is Amrita and she's an 8 year old girl. Amrita will be needing a "New Zealand family" to help with her care while living at the DCH. NZ$25 a month - if you wish to make a committment to this child please send a message to me.

Message from Nepal

2011-03-03T17:43:00.000-08:00

From Mina "We all are fine and we hope that you are also fine. And how is the program of bicycle. We hope and cheer for him. We wish him best time and best of luck." Ray's sponsorship page is at: http://www.fundraiseonline.co.nz/RayYates/

Still time to sponsor Ray's ride

2011-02-17T13:34:00.000-08:00

Please encourage as many as possible to sponsor Ray - our target of $1500 will help us purchase a pc for the older students and additional funds will go towards extra tuition for their school leaving exams. And yes - if our goal is reached Linda will shave her head! :)

Ray's training hard - give him some further motivation by donating a few dollars via his website:

http://www.fundraiseonline.co.nz/RayYates/

It's safe and accepts donations from around the world.

Some photos from the Island Bay Day in the Bay fair day

2011-02-17T13:30:00.000-08:00

Here's DCH Trust volunteers Linda and Ray hard at work raising funds for the DCH in Pokhara.
Thanks Diana for the pics :)

IB Fair day - Thank you

2011-02-13T21:41:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who contributed to making the DCH Charitable Trust stall a big success at the Island Bay 'Day in the Bay' market yesterday. Thanks to those who helped out by manning the stall on such a hot day, those who contributed things to sell, and those who came along to support us by buying our wares and wanting to learn more about the work of the Trust.
Next stop Newtown fair on Sunday 6 March. See you there.

DCH in the newspaper

2011-02-08T19:05:00.000-08:00

We got a great photo of the DCH children into the local community newspaper along with our plea for assistance getting things to Nepal. Check it out - you'll need to scroll along to page 8 or 9.

Island Bay - Day in the Bay and DCH Fundrsising

2011-02-05T19:48:00.000-08:00

We've preserved lemons, made lemon chutney, beetroot relish, spicy tomato relish, sweet orange marmalade and still have lemon and carrot marmalade and lemon honey to make. All for sale at the DCH stall at the Island Bay Day in the Bay on Sunday 13. Come along and buy our goodies next Sunday. The nice red beetroot relish would make a good gift for your valentine :)

Spring bulbs - fundraiser

2011-02-05T19:47:00.000-08:00

The DCH Charitable Trust will be selling spring bulbs as a fundraiser. An order form will be going out shortly to all those on our mailing list but if you'd like to be on the email list, or know someone who would be keen on ordering please let us know.
NZ orders only and those outside Wellington will have to pay a small amount for postage as well.

Karapoti sponsorship - fundraising for the DCH

2011-01-30T20:48:00.000-08:00

Yes, March is coming up and that means Ray is seeking additional motivation before he attempts the 50km Classic mountain bike race for the 5th year running

He's not getting any younger and the race isn't getting any easier.

To keep him motivated he seeks sponsorship - all funds raised go to the DCH Pokhara Charitable Trust, and should we reach our 2011 target of NZ$1500 we will be able to purchase a computer for the older children to improve their computer skills and help keep them in touch with sponsors. Any additional funding will go towards extra tuition for the senior students as they prepare for their school leaving exams.

And this year there is even more reason to donate - should we reach our target (or better still exceed it) - Linda, the DCH Trust's Chair - has volunteered to shave her head. Should it happen photos of this public humilation will be posted on this site and in other social networking forums.

BUT - it won't happen unless that target goal is achieved.

So please - donate to Ray's fundraising now and help us to help the children of Nepal.
Go to: http://www.fundraiseonline.co.nz/RayYates/

And ask others on your mailing list to do the same. We're not asking to raise a lot, but it's an amount that helps the children a great deal.

Transporting clothing to Nepal and the DCH

2011-01-27T16:07:00.000-08:00

Anyone going to Nepal, and importantly, Pokhara in the next six months?
Our last consignment of clothing to the home attracted an 'import tax' despite it being clear that it was a charitable donation with no commercial value.
So - we are desperately seeking people who might be able to help us transport the clothing across and deliver it to the DCH. It can be just a few items, or if you're really keen, you can ask your airline for an additional baggage allowance. We will write a letter in support and it should be free.
Please get in touch if you're willing and/or able to help.

Fundraising - book sales

2011-01-06T13:15:00.000-08:00

We're selling some lots of bulk paperbacks on Trademe. If you want to stock up on reading material AND support the DCH now is the time to do it.

See our auctions at:
Bulk humour : http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=345525393

Bulk thriller:
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=345522924

Frances Fyfield - set of six titles
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=345521306

Bulk novels no. 1
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=344652966

Bulk novels no. 2
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=344654376

Bulk novels no. 3

We need your recipes! Now you're cooking vol 2.

2010-12-31T16:12:00.001-08:00

This year (2011) the DCH will be publishing another volume of 2009-10's highly successful "Now you're cooking! Marvellous meals, daring desserts and dashing bakes" -

BUT - we need your input. Send us through your favourite tried and true recipes asap. Ask around your friends and colleagues for their input too. Even if it's a photocopy we can type it up - we need content.

So send it through now - your favourite vege quiche, the kid's favourite spaghetti recipe, Nana's marmalade that everyone loves, the BBQ marinade that everyone uses each summer - send it all on through to us.

If it works, it's quick and easy, the family love it - then please share it with us.

The Himalayan Times : Future of Nepalese economy - Detail News : Nepal News Portal

2010-12-31T16:12:00.000-08:00

The Himalayan Times : Future of Nepalese economy - Detail News : Nepal News Portal

Fundraising for DCH

2010-12-30T12:23:00.001-08:00

The summer months are some of our busiest for fundraising and the stalls we hold at the markets in the city are a great opportunity to also talk to people about the work we do and sign up more sponsors.

In the next few months we have the following days booked - stalls at both the Island Bay fair (Sunday 13 February) and the Newtown fair a few weeks later (Sunday 6 march). The weekend of 5-6 March is a big one for us as Ray rides the Karapoti (50km mountain bike race) on Saturday and again will be seeking sponsorship to help motivate his training. Then all day at the Newtown fair on Sunday.

Ways you can help: Come along and help out for an hour or two at the stalls so we can have a break - there are periods that are really full on when it's difficult to get away for a quick coffee or just a sit in the shade so assistance is always welcome.

Contribute books (good conditiion), plants (well grown cuttings or sturdy seedings) or if you're so inclined make jams, relishes, chutneys etc for selling.
We'll help where we can by providing jars if necessary, containers for pots etc etc.

Encourage others to contribute - if you know the neighbour is moving house and has some plants or books to get rid of suggest they donate to us! If gran makes great marmalade - get her to whip up a batch for us to sell.

Once Ray's sponsorship page is up and running - send it on around friends and workmates - this year we'd like to raise enough to purchase another pc for the senior children, with perhaps some left over to help pay for extra tuition before the school leaving exams - every little bit helps and the more people who know about us the more we can hopefully raise.

We'll have more details about all this nearer the time so keep checking back.

Facebook

2010-12-13T10:57:00.000-08:00

Don't forget we also have a facebook page - DCH Pokhara Charitable trust will find us.
Sign up and become a friend!

Photos from Tihar

2010-12-13T10:54:00.000-08:00

The DCH has has a bit of a facelift over the Tihar festive season. Here's some photos of the kids and the new paint work.

Brooklyn market

2010-09-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

Thanks to those sponsors who dropped by our stall last Saturday - we had a good day and sold most of our jam, chutney and lemon honey with all proceeds of course go to the DCH in due course.
Enjoy!

Brooklyn Market tomorrow - home made jam for sale

2010-09-23T16:42:00.000-07:00

Have made lemon honey (with organic eggs and lemons), lemon chutney, pear and ginger jam, orange marmalade AND parsley/almond pesto. All for sale @ Brooklyn Community market tomorrow morning 9am - 12.30.
Also bags, cook books and fair trade chocolate for sale. All proceeds to the DCH.
Drop in and see us.

Update on the children's health

2010-09-10T17:48:00.000-07:00

It is rainy season in Nepal, although coming to an end. Conditions are such that there have been outbreaks of typhoid and viral fever throughout Nepal. Unfortunately the DCH has not been spared these illnesses, although some of the children are recovering.
From Mina:
"Well,some children are getting better. They are affected by viral fever and typhoid. We hope very soon they will be good. Thank you for the money. We really need for medicine and fruit".

Fundraiser - cake and cards - Sat October 9

2010-09-09T16:13:00.000-07:00

Following on from our successful and popular cake and cards fundraiser last year we will be having another afternoon with Phoenix Trading on Saturday October 9.
We're using a home in Tawa to make it easier for those of you in the northern suburbs. Time 1-4pm.
New Christmas stock will be on sale and available for order.
The more you buy the more the DCH Trust benefits.

Coffee and cake available.

So leave this afternoon free for helping the DCH and don't forget to encourage friends and family along too.

Thank you to Raroa Normal Intermediate kids

2010-09-02T22:14:00.000-07:00

A big thank you to Sione and his friends at Raroa Normal Intermediate School in Johnsonville. The children have been working on a business idea and seeing it through to fruition. A percentage of the profits from their business were to be donated to charity. After their teacher told them about the work of the DCH the children decided we would be their chosen charity. The team was called Omega 5 and they sold wheat packs. They made $124 in total and donated $55 to the DCH charitable trust to go to the children in Nepal. Says Sione "We have chosen your charity because we feel you need all the money you can get. We hope this helps".

New DCH Charitable Trust newsletter

2010-07-31T23:16:00.000-07:00

The winter newsletter was sent out today - if you didn't get one or aren't on our mailing list please get in touch and we'll forward one on.

Come and shake your tail feather!

2010-07-31T18:19:00.000-07:00

The DCH Charitable Trust has arranged a screening of "The Blues Bros" at Time Cinema, Lyall Bay on Sunday 22 August. 1.30pm for 2pm start.
Tickets $15 for movie and afternoon tea (and the DCH committee provide a great afternoon tea)
Costume not necessary but if you feel the need to don a suit and shades feel free :)

For tickets either email us, contact us via facebook or phone 383-6931.

Places are limited.

DCH at the Brooklyn market

2010-07-29T01:16:00.000-07:00

We'll be at the Brooklyn market on Saturday morning, 1 Aug., selling bags, books and recipe books for the DCH. If you're in the vicinity of the Community Centre, 9-12 noon come and support us!

A new photo from Pokhara

2010-07-20T00:26:00.001-07:00

Here's the kids in their school uniforms. Don't they look great!

Shake off those winter Blues!

2010-07-15T14:17:00.000-07:00

The DCH is holding a movie fundraiser Sunday 22 August 2pm in Wellington.
Tickets will be $15 - and will include a classic movie and afternoon tea.
More details to follow but spaces will be limited.
Come and shake your tail feather with us and help support the the children of the DCH.

Bags for sale

2010-06-06T21:00:00.000-07:00

The DCH Charitable trust is selling bags imported from a woman's collective in Pokhara, Nepal.

There are a number of sizes, styles and colours available. The main styles are:

The bucket bag,
The double bag,
The shopping bag,
Monk's bag
Bag with purse

Bags are woven cotton, sturdy, and neatly finished. Most have full or partial linings. Muted colours are from natural dyes, whereas more colourful bags are made with chemical dyes.

Most are being sold for around NZ$20 (give or take a few dollars) and postage will be extra on that if necessary.

Purchase of one of these bags supports both Chetana Women Development Collective and the Destitute Children's Home.

Contact us for further details.

Double bag

Bucket bag

Graphic design skills sought

2010-06-06T17:23:00.000-07:00

The DCH Trust is seeking someone with graphic design skills who can assist us, voluntarily, in designing a logo for our promotional work.
We have an idea of what we what - we need someone to transfer that on to paper.
If you can help, or know someone who can please get in touch.

Sponsors sought

2010-06-06T17:20:00.000-07:00

The DCH Trust has now arranged NZ family for 17 of the 21 children of the DCH however we are seeking four more sponsors for DCH kids - NZ$25 per month per child goes towards the children's school fees.
If you would like to add another child to your family please get in touch.

Nepal political update

2010-05-14T14:09:00.000-07:00

http://www.ekantipur.com/2010/05/14/intl-coverage/after-maoist-protests-nepal-faces-a-murky-future/314295/

The political situation in Nepal is confused at the moment. This article gives an overview of the current situation.

Some more pictures by the DCH children

2010-05-06T12:27:00.000-07:00

Pictures by Dipti, Devraj and Kamal

Photos from the Mediterranean Food Warehouse cooking class evening

2010-04-28T22:17:00.000-07:00

Another fun and informative evening was enjoyed by those who attended in support of the DCH.
We watched and tasted, Stuffed squid, Beef Osso Bucco and finised with Feijoa Tarte Tartin.

Some of the attendees enjoying the evening:

Orfenat Destitute Childrens Home

2010-04-27T22:23:00.000-07:00

Found this video of the DCH kids on youtube. It was taken around mid-2007 so the children were all a bit younger then.
Don't know who took it - but thanks!

Trade Aid event - Wellington - 6.30pm 5 May 2010

2010-04-26T20:06:00.000-07:00

Meeting our Trade Partner, Meera Bhattarai from Nepal: 6.30pm 5th May

This year for Fair Trade Fortnight we are privileged to have the founder of one of our Nepalese trading partners come and visit. On the 5th of May she will be in the Wellington store speaking about the work she is doing with women in Nepal and how their lives have been improved through Fair Trade. This will be a once in a lifetime talk that you will not want to miss.

Find out more at :

http://www.tradeaid.org.nz/

Art from Nepal

2010-04-24T15:30:00.000-07:00

The DCH kids have recently sent letters to their sponsors in NZ.
Here's some of the art work that accompanied the letters.

Pictures by Nawraj, Ram and Sabina.

New photos from Nepal

2010-04-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

A couple of new photos from Pokhara.

The kids in their school uniforms and at home on the roof top. That's the Annapurna ranges in the background

Mother's day in Nepal

2010-04-15T15:02:00.001-07:00

It's Mother's day in Nepal as well so if you want to send Mina an email I'm sure she'll appreciate it.

More about Nepali Mother's day at:

http://www.nepalhomepage.com/society/festivals/motherday.html

New year in Nepal

2010-04-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Nepal has just welcomed in 2067.

Nepali New Year is celebrated on the 1st of Baisakh Baisākh (12-15 April) in Nepal.

The year 2010 is the year 2067 in the Nepali Bikram Sambat calendar. Also known as Baisakh 1 or Bisket Jatra.

DCH Charitable Trust on facebook

2010-04-09T13:43:00.001-07:00

Don't forget we're now on facebook so look us up and become a friend:

DCH Pokhara Charitable trust

And we're on twitter too - DCH Pokhara_nz

Eyewitness to a revolution in Nepal

2010-03-20T01:07:00.001-07:00

Meeting - Wellington 24 March 6pm@ Newtown Community Centre, 1 Columbo St, WELLINGTON.

NZ Speaking tour by Ben Peterson, a young Australian activist who spent a year in Nepal witnessing first hand the revolutionary political struggle.

This meeting is organised jointly by Workers party and Socialist worker.

For more information see:
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK1003/S00180.htm

Cooking class fundraiser

2010-03-18T19:41:00.000-07:00

The Destitute Children's Home Charitable Trust is again working with the Mediterranean Food warehouse in Newtown, Wellington to get people along to the cooking classes and support the DCH Trust.

Places are limited and we need confirmation and payment asap.

We have places booked on Tuesday 27 April 6.30-8.30.

For $30 you get a guest cook who will demonstrate three different Mediterranean influenced dishes. This includes starter, main and dessert. You get to see the dish being prepared and sample it afterwards. A glass of wine is on offer and you get copies of the recipes too.

Those who attended last year enjoyed the evenings a great deal and many have expressed an interest in coming back.
It really is a fun evening and - NO - it's not hands on cooking class (cause of some concern last year!)

Feel free to encourage friends and work colleagues along to support the DCH Charitable Trust.

But do reserve your places places asap.

Once confirmed payment instructions will be sent out.

The cost of living in Pokhara

2010-03-10T23:03:00.000-08:00

When I was in Pokhara last year the cost of rice (a Nepali staple) had more than doubled in price in 2.5 years.

The cost of land is outrageous, finding affordable rental accommodation a struggle, and the DCH has to cope with all this.

That's why supporting the DCh really is making a difference - without our support it would be even more difficult for them to continue the work of caring for the children.

Pokhara is the most expensive place to live’ http://www.nepalnewsmobile.com/2010/mar/mar11/news07.php

Many thanks for help with fundraising.

2010-03-07T15:43:00.000-08:00

Many, many thanks to all those who have given the Trust support this weekend. It was a big weekend in our fundraising calendar, first with Ray's sponsored ride of the Karapoti 50km mountain bike ride - not an easy undertaking, but one he completed successfully and without any injuries.

Yesterday we had a big day at the Newtown fair, but our sales were good - we have a great supply of woven bags from a woman's cooperative in Nepal, our recipe books, and of course the range of jams and chutneys we are becoming known for. Great to see repeat customers coming back for more.

Our contact details are in the recipe books, and a number of our cards were taken so we're looking forward to some new supporters of the DCH in coming weeks and hopefully, some people may step up and become sponsors for a DCH child.

But it doesn't stop there - in the next few months we will continue with the sales of the bags and the books. If you're thinking of a small gift for an upcoming birthday, one that is easily posted, then get in touch with us - our bags and cook books are well received :)

And stay tuned for some fun fundraising activities in the next couple of months.

It's Holi in Nepal

2010-03-01T19:27:00.000-08:00

http://www.nepalhomepage.com/society/festivals/fagupurnima.html

Day in the Bay

2010-02-18T10:55:00.001-08:00

Photos from the stall we held at the Island Bay day in the bay on Sunday 14 Feb.
The sea breezes became a bit unrelenting, but we had a busy time throughout the day telling people about the work of the DCH Trust.

Photos from Nepal

2010-02-11T12:17:00.000-08:00

Here's pictures of the microwave we helped the DCH to buy, due to sales from the "Now you're cooking" recipe book.

A big thank you to everyone who supported us in this venture.

Cookbook reprint

2010-02-09T23:07:00.000-08:00

The DCH fundraising cookbook "Now you're cooking" which has proved so popular has just been reprinted.
Copies are $10 and make a great gift to self or small present to others.
Easy posted too.

Full of great, easy, inspiring recipes.

Scroll through the January blog entries for some positive feedback from those who have bought copies

Place your orders while copies are plentiful :)

Message for sponsors

2010-02-04T14:01:00.001-08:00

Message for sponsors - I had an email from Mina today - Pokhara is experiencing lengthy power outages, making it difficult for Mina to get to an internet cafe when she has time free. Therefore there may be some delay in responding to any emails you send. So if you sent an email recently, don't be concerned if you don't hear from her immediately.

Island Bay 'Day in the Bay' and DCH stall

2010-02-04T11:30:00.000-08:00

The Island Bay 'Day in the bay' is on again this year as part of the Island Bay festival.
For the third year the DCH will be having a stall selling books, plants, jams, chutneys, and bags we have imported from Pokhara, Nepal.
Come along and support us or give us a hand with the stall. Sunday 14 February island Bay 10-...5pm - around Shorland Park and Reef St and the Esplanade.

Do you have surplus fruit and veg we can turn into jam and chutney??

2010-01-31T11:46:00.000-08:00

Desperately seeking - surplus fruit and veg that we can make into jam or chutney.
If you've got an oversupply of plums, lemons, apples etc, live in Wellington and are happy to donate them to the DCH trust please let me (Linda) know. Ditto spare clean jars for recycling and filling with produce.
Thanks

Hats for Nepal

2010-01-18T00:02:00.000-08:00

Some time ago we asked for interested people to knit hats for the DCH kids.
One kind, and prolific knitter has provided us with ten woollie hats to date.
If you'd like to give it a go here's a link to a pattern.

A knitting pattern for a winter hat

Instead of giving up a bad habit in 2010, why not take up a good one? Perri Lewis nominates knitting, and shares a simple pattern for a woolly hat

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2010/jan/13/knitting-pattern-winter-hat

Message from Mina

2010-01-15T22:35:00.000-08:00

Message from Mina:
"oh,yes we have bought the micro oven. It is new to us. I am thinking to take cooking class so that I will be able to make delicious food for the children"

So thanks everyone for supporting the sale of the cookbook - this is what you helped us achieve

Exams coming up

2010-01-12T23:38:00.000-08:00

The DCH kids are about to sit their end of semester exams. Then they have a short break. Sponsors may like to write a note of encouragement via Mina

Now you're cooking - feedback!

2010-01-12T00:06:00.000-08:00

It's been great to see people who received a copy of our cookbook "Now you're cooking" for Christmas coming to us and ordering copies to give away to others.

And many of those who placed orders for Christmas are coming back for additional copies.

It's a great gift - thank you or birthday present - so if you haven't got one - or three - now's the time to place an order.

Some of the written comments we have received:

The book looks great, thanks to all those involved.

Thanks for the books, it looks really, really good.

I just wanted to say what a great job I thought you did with the cookbook … I really love it. It's got a lovely kiwi heritage feel to it with the recipes having little personal intros - that's a nice touch and makes it more homey and interesting.

Ways to raise money to support the DCH - get sponsored!

2010-01-11T00:11:00.000-08:00

The DCH Charitable Trust is registed with the fundraise online page.

This means if your New year's resolutions included undertaking an event such as a half (or full) marathon, taking part in the swim series, a cycle race, or even doing something like shaving your head - then consider getting sponsored and raise money for the Destitute Children's Home in Pokhara at the same time.

The thought of doing some good can be motivating on those long, hard training days!

For more information go to : http://www.fundraiseonline.co.nz

From there follow the instructions to set up your page - choose the DCH Pokhara Charitable Trust as your charity of choice and let us know so we can spread the word around our networks.

We'll help and support in anyway we can.

News item updating Nepal's political situation

2010-01-03T22:40:00.000-08:00

Growing fragility of Nepal's peace process
More than three years after Maoist rebels negotiated a ceasefire with Nepal's other political parties, the country's peace process is looking increasingly unstable.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/8417031.stm

Running costs

2010-01-01T20:26:00.000-08:00

People are often concerned that much of their sponsorship money doesn't get to where it's needed most. That's not the case with the DCH Charitable Trust. As we are small we have no overheads and the money donated to us goes direct from our account to the DCH several times a year. The one big factor - beyond our control - is the exchange rate as we have to convert NZ dollars into US dollars to send them to Nepal.

Based on the 2009 budget figures recently given to us by the DCH in Nepal, NZ$25 per month pays just under half the costs for a child. (Figures are approximate)

And if you make a one off donation then it works out like this:

$NZ $20 - will pay the electricity or water and phone bill for a month
NZ $25 will purchase a month's worth of fruit
NZ $45 goes towards school uniform costs
NZ $50 buys pulse and masala (lentils and spices for staple dahl type dishes)
NZ $70 pays the meat purchases for a month
NZ $120 goes towards school transport

And so on

What do people get out of sponsoring a DCH child?

2009-12-30T23:25:00.000-08:00

If you've been thinking about sponsoring a DCH child but not sure about it here's some feedback from several New Zealanders who are sponsoring DCH children.

"For a few dollars a month it’s wonderful for us to know that we can help these kids in some small way. We are able to give these children in Nepal a helpful start to their young lives and the opportunity to develop into fine young men".
(Sponsors of three boys)

"Why sponsor a girl? What a bonus, I had two daughters, now I have three! Also, the lives of females are usually more difficult than those of males so it makes sense to help females. And you don't have to be well off to make a difference - I took redundancy from paid work and am living on savings".
(Sponsor of one of girls)

"It was lovely to receive the photo and see pictures from the DCH. It was a pleasure to see that big smile .... It really brought home that the reason I give to the DCH is the personal connection, and the fact that it is a small group of us here in NZ who can directly make a difference for that particular group of children".
(Sponsor of another of the girls)

All money contributed through sponsorship goes from the Trust to the home. We have no overheads so the money reaches the home when it is needed (start of the school term etc). Because we are small we also have personal contact with the people who run the home and care for the children and these things make the sponsorship relationship so much more rewarding.

Other people's pics from the DCH

2009-12-27T14:03:00.000-08:00

Shortly before I visited the DCH this year a group from Australia had been working with children's homes in Pokhara. They helped the kids paint murals in the homework room. Here's their pictures.

http://eyeswideopen-nepal.blogspot.com/2009/10/final-day-before-trek.html

We're now on Facebook

2009-12-26T19:16:00.000-08:00

Check us out on Facebook by searching for DCH Pokhara Charitable Trust or on our email dchpokhara(at)gmail.com - remove parenthesis first and change (at) to @!