The Transformational Journey of Affirming Works Food Hub
Kia ora to our wonderful community!
It feels like only yesterday when in August 2020, the Affirming Works food hub was initiated at 9 Moa St, Otahuhu. With the sights and sounds of online self-registrations, the rows of vehicles stretching down Moa Street, it was a scene unfamiliar to many families — receiving sustenance in the simple form of a cardboard box. Imagine the organized chaos: every vehicle’s number plate registered, their owners checking in, and an allocated time slot to maintain that quintessential Kiwi order amidst unprecedented times.
Leap forward to 2023, and the waiata of our efforts still resounds across Aotearoa. The process is more refined, but the heart remains unchanged. Instead of cars lining up, a call to our friendly team at the centre determines your pick-up. And in a heartening twist, while collecting their food, whānau can share a hot cuppa, a slice of morning tea, and pour out their stories. It’s a touching moment where our staff can understand more deeply the unique challenges of each individual, and offer the manaakitanga or care that’s more than just sustenance.
Should you, or someone you know, need assistance, simply ring our 0800 0 AFFIRM number, or 0800 0233476. A brief korero of 2 to 5 minutes is all it takes. But it’s more than just about the food. It’s an opportunity to see if there’s more we can do, more awhi we can offer. Yet, we also understand the quiet strength and pride of our Kiwi families. Sometimes, all that’s needed is that food parcel, a temporary bridge over the turbulent waters of unexpected bills or until the next pay.
The countless testimonies from families who’ve weathered storms with our help, the heartwarming gratitude expressed from households, are the lifeblood that drives us. Each thank you is a poignant reminder of our humble role in this grand tapestry of community support. To date, we’ve touched the lives of over 100,000 individuals, a testament to the transformative spirit of our community.
But this waka would be adrift without the many hands that steer and guide it. A heartfelt mihi to the Ministry of Social Development, the devoted Leo Tanoa team, and our myriad partners who became our backbone, ensuring every food parcel found its way home.
It’s easy to become desensitised or complacent, thinking this is just the ‘new normal’. But let’s not forget: every act of kindness, every parcel given, reinforces the enduring spirit of manaakitanga in our community. For it’s in these moments we realise – we’re not just delivering food; we’re nourishing souls.
Thank you, team, for making this journey possible. Let’s continue to lead positive change, one parcel at a time.
Ngā mihi nui,
