Thank you for being a friend

Saroj lives at home with her mum and attends an IHC Vocational Service during the day. Her brother suggested she join IHC’s friendship programme to have someone new to spend time with.

Ankita came to New Zealand to study. When she arrived she had no family or friends here so wanted to meet new people. When she found out about IHC’s volunteering programme she knew it was for her. Saroj and Ankita met about a year ago and have been great friends ever since.

At first, Ankita put a lot of time into getting to know Saroj and how best to communicate with her. They went on lots of walks together, which has helped Saroj gain confidence out in the community. Sometimes after a walk they will stop for a hamburger, samosa or Indian sweets and snacks.

Saroj was keen to learn to make some of her favourite treats to share with her friends at the Vocational Service, so Ankita helped her to find YouTube videos to get recipes and see how things are made. Recently they make nankhatai, an Indian shortbread biscuit with cardamom and nutmeg.

It is always a good day for Saroj when Ankita visits. She enjoys having a friend of her own. And Saroj likes to make Ankita laugh with her jokes.

Thanks to the Smile Club donors, IHC can support people like Saroj and Ankita to become friends and stay friends.