Proud to be a Kiwi.

15 Apr 2020
Author: Lisa Gunnery
2 minute read

Now more than ever we are called to be a community of people with more than our own self-interest at heart - which is at the core of what The Hunger Project is all about. Our sense of community is being tested - but it is so inspiring to see the ways that Kiwis have answered that call.

The COVID-19 crisis has been a heartbreaking one to watch unfold, but I am proud to be a New Zealander. Seeing everyone come together to support one another, protect our vulnerable people and be resilient in the face of this hardship has been inspirational to say the least. I have seen businesses pivot their direction in a matter of weeks to ensure that critical and essential services can be delivered to our people, and entire communities rally around to support each other. 

                  

Our growth mindsets will continue to be tested as we move into the next phase of our response but the creativity of Kiwis has never been in question!

   

Lisa Gunnery, Country Director

Now is the time for collective community spirit.

One of our Trustees shared with me the story of his local Dairy which has been supporting vulnerable people in the community with free bread and milk from their shop during our Level 4 Lockdown period. Upon hearing of their efforts, other members of the community wanted to help out so the Dairy has set up a little collection jar where people can donate a few coins as they buy their goods. 

This funding will help to support the project and ensure that the Dairy owners will be able to continue to support these people throughout this crisis. It’s community led development at its best. The solution is simple - but the reward and the opportunity for involvement are far reaching, it serves an immediate need and creates a sustainable solution. 

We need simple but sustainable solutions.

Our new Federation community is in place to seek out such opportunities where we can bring together people with simple and focused solutions that advance our communities forward.

We had a great initial meeting just before the COVID-19 crisis unfolded - we are excited about the possibilities and real change that we can have in our communities. And with the COVID-19 crisis, the need will be greater now more than ever before. 

Our sense of community is being tested - but it is so inspiring to see the ways in which we have answered that call. Do you want to join our community of changemakers forging solutions to create brighter futures for everyone?