3rd Degree (TV show) aired the plight of pensioner (retiree) Vernon Gardiner who was in a Filipino prison facing 20 years for a debt of less than $5000. He needed:
- NZ$4982 to repay Vernon’s debt
- NZ$2000 to pay Vernon’s overstaying fees and secure him a new passport
- NZ$1000 to contribute to his rent, pay for new clothes and set him up on another island
The television show put up the first $1000 and donations covered more than the rest of his needs.
Sarah Hall, from the tv show, took the money to the town of Virac and Vernon was soon a free man.
Sarah Hall, from the tv show, took the money to the town of Virac and Vernon was soon a free man.
Good on ya, New Zealand!
Please note: None of the money you donated has been used to cover any costs incurred by 3rd Degree. And 3rd Degree did not pay Vernon for his story.
As more was raised than was needed to free Vernon Gardiner from prison, we are donating the remaining funds to two New Zealand charities, the New Zealand Red Cross and Make A Wish NZ.
http://www.3news.co.nz/Vernon-Gardiner-free-from-Filipino-jail/tabid/1771/articleID/294478/Default.aspx
11 comments:
Debtor's Prison? That is unthinkable. Hurray for the good people who helped out!!
I like a happy ending! And generous people. Looks like there are both here! Good job! xoxo
That's fantastic great job NZ They must do that kind of thing regularly
What a wonderful thing to do!
Ah, now that lifts the spirits. I'd like to think that would happen here in the UK too
"Blog walking... Have a nice day my friend!"
wow..this is an amazing story. I hope his new life is very profitable and joyous!
Way to go, New Zealand!
20 years! That's crazy. I bet he's very happy. :)
What a lovely story. It seems like the TV show staff have a lot to be proud of too.
Have a good week.
How sad someone could go to prison for 20 years for being in debt for less than $5000! Yes, ew Zealanders should be pleased that they raised the money to free him.
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