From our CEO

June 30th already!

Here in Aotearoa New Zealand, we are facing inflation like many have never experienced – we even call a block of cheese, an investment these days!

Over the past months the team here at Foodbank Aotearoa New Zealand through our Hubs at Christchurch and Timaru as well as our rural program has been an integral part of the response to this crisis, providing safe, nutritious food to those facing hunger and strengthening social support systems in our communities that are particularly vulnerable. The war in Ukraine and the pervasive effects of climate change are compounding the situation, leading to further spikes in food prices and disruptions in supply chains, severely limiting food access. By 2023, food availability might become a serious problem as well.

Over the past 6 months FBANZ demonstrated how indispensable we are in the food chain. With the awesome support of our Donor Partners and our funding donors we have managed to address an increase in demand in excess of 30% over the same period last year. Through the end of May FBANZ redistributed over 500 tonnes of food and food product to those in need.

Please rest assured that we continue to monitor this situation very closely and we are adjusting our programs to respond quickly and appropriately to the specific challenges ahead.

Our sincere thanks go to our tireless staff, our passionate volunteers and all those who believe and support what we do!

Ngā mihi, John