Children’s Help Line Receives Major Grant

14 January 2003

'The national children's telephone counselling service  What's Up - has welcomed a $35,000 grant from the AMP Foundation.'

Acting Chairman of The Kids Help Foundation Trust, which offers What’s Up, and former Commissioner for Children Dr Ian Hassall, praised AMP for their support and enthusiasm in helping the service.

"New Zealand kids tell us that they want to be listened to, that communication for them with each other and with adults is vital, particularly when dealing with problems," Dr Hassall said.

"What’s Up received over 250,000 calls in its first twelve months of service. This grant from AMP will help us to build awareness of our work with children and young people and to raise further funds to answer more of these calls."

Richard Gordon, Auckland Communications manager for AMP, said the company was proud to support a worthwhile and unique service for children.

"AMP is pleased to assist in enabling more calls for help to be answered," he said. "We think it's great when we can get behind charities like this and work with them for the benefit of New Zealand children and young people."

What’s Up Counsellors can be reached by all New Zealand 5 to 18 year olds free of charge between noon and midnight, seven days a week on 0800 WHATSUP (0800 942 8787). Donations can be made by calling the What’s Up donation line 0900 YOUR CALL (0900 96872) or The Kids Help Foundation Trust office on 09-630-4144.