Your 2025 Westfield St Lukes Local Hero is:

Turtle Sarten

Give a Kid a Blanket

Selfless. Compassionate. Dedicated.

Every week, Turtle devotes up to 50 hours of her time providing families in crisis with the care, support and dignity they deserve, as she once needed herself. 

Turtle grew up experiencing poverty and found that warmth, comfort, and basic needs were often scarce. This inspired her to co-found the charity Give a Kid a Blanket. This action-driven network in West Auckland provides those in need with bedding, clothing, toiletries, cleaning supplies, toys, and food.  

“I learned to navigate life with determination and hope. Instead of letting these experiences define me negatively, I used them to fuel my passion for helping others.” says Turtle.  

“For me, this work is about more than just giving; it’s about creating real connections and building resilience together as a community.” 

To reach the charity’s mission to alleviate poverty, Turtle also partners with frontline agencies to provide much-need supplies for those in desperate need. She is supported by a community of volunteers, donors and community service workers, who have helped her take the organisation from strength to strength. 

With her grassroots approach and endless dedication, Turtle is influential in reducing hardship, improving wellbeing and ensuring recipients of her care feel valued and supported. 

“No one should struggle alone,” says Turtle. “I believe small acts of kindness can make a big difference.”

The $20,000 grant will be used to hire an assistant coordinator to improve logistics, manage volunteers and work with partners, so the charity can respond more quickly to urgent requests.

We’d like to thank and acknowledge our finalists who will receive a $5K grant for the organisation they represent.

Angela Thompson from The Disabled Citizens Society Inc

Angela’s volunteering focuses on improving the lives and futures for people with disabilities. Her dedication helps them to learn life skills, make connections and find pathways to employment. Through her work, she advocates for inclusion and opportunity. Angela also gives her time to a community kitchen, providing meals for up to 100 people per week.

Peter Buckland from Mercy Hospice Te Korowai Atawhai

After a 38-year hospice career, Peter is now a palliative care volunteer. Driven by a deep belief that everyone deserves to die with dignity, Peter fundraises, shares his professional experience, and is also hands-on, providing transport and emotional support. Peter’s work ensures patients and families feel supported, respected, and less alone.

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If you need support, please phone Lifeline Aotearoa: 0800 543 354

Recognising all our 2025 nominees

View all of the Westfield St Lukes nominees and their organisations.