Who We Support
Where Do Our Milk & Meat Packs Go?
The work, dedication, and generosity that come together to produce our meat and milk packs are truly extraordinary. From the farmers who donate their milk and livestock, to the supporters who contribute their resources, each element reflects a shared passion for making a difference. This collective effort deserves to create an impact where it matters most. We don’t take any of it for granted. Every pack represents not just nourishment, but the care, compassion, and community spirit of so many.
Here’s a look into where this hard work goes, ensuring it reaches those who need it most.
Food Banks
When it comes to choosing the food banks we support, our charity places immense importance on being thoughtful custodians of the kai generously donated. As a result, we make sure that every partnership aligns with our core impact criteria.
Our chosen food banks go beyond mere distribution; they offer comprehensive wraparound services that empower individuals. These services include financial planning, housing assistance, health support or job placement services, ensuring that those in need receive a step-up, not just a handout. Typically, recipients engage with these services for about three months, equipping them to become self-sufficient in their unique circumstances.
We’re committed to meaningful and sustainable change by collaborating with multifaceted support networks.
Social Supermarkets
Meet The Need supports Social Supermarkets, which offer a modern alternative to traditional food banks. These supermarkets allow individuals to select food items themselves, providing more choice and dignity while accommodating specific dietary, cultural, and personal preferences.
Learn about social supermarkets and how they support individuals and families in need.
Because we are a community-led foodbank, for the community by the community, people who come to us for assistance are the neighbours, family, work colleagues and friends of all of us.
New Plymouth Community Foodbank Trust, April 2024
Meat & Milk Recipients
The landscape of food insecurity is diverse. Many hard-working individuals and families live paycheck to paycheck, without the luxury of savings to cushion unforeseen financial blows.
Imagine having to choose between paying for necessities or skipping meals. Our mission is to bridge the gap between their circumstances and nutritional needs.
Often, people only need to access food banks for a few months at a time.
- Elderly whose fixed incomes barely cover their essentials, and whose budgets are tipped over the line due to the cost of power, and increasing cost of food.
- Single parents, who struggle to make ends meet with children to support and limited income. An unexpected bill like a fridge breaking down can cause a budget deficit.
- Middle-class families, where both parents work tirelessly, yet one is forced to take unpaid sick leave due to a long illness, or one is made redundant.
