The New Zealand Food Network (NZFN) has disclosed a troubling 20% surge in the demand for food assistance over the past six months, compared to the same period last year. In response, the organization has launched a year-long initiative, ‘Pitch In,’ which appeals to both businesses and individuals to contribute food, monetary donations, or essential items with the aim of virtually filling Eden Park with meals for those in need. This commendable effort has received the endorsement of former rugby world champion and All Black star, Piri Weepu, who hails from the Ngāi Tahu, Whakatōhea, and Niue communities.
The ‘Pitch In’ campaign, supported by Weepu, is set to make a substantial impact. For every instance the pitch at Eden Park is filled, the NZFN will have the capacity to provide an impressive 100,000 meals to individuals facing food insecurity.
The rise in demand for food support is intrinsically linked to the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and exacerbated in regions hit by Cyclone Gabrielle earlier this year.
Weepu, who is intimately acquainted with the challenges many families face in putting food on the table, is deeply committed to the cause. He is actively involved in assembling food packages in Wainuiomata and recognizes the invaluable role that the ‘Pitch In’ campaign can play in reducing food waste. Supermarkets often discard items that have been on display for some time, but Weepu and the ‘Pitch In’ initiative aim to ensure that these goods still find their way to those in need, as the community knows how to utilize them creatively.
In Weepu’s words, “My community, Wainuiomata, had a few whānau that were struggling. To see this on a higher level, it’s awesome to give back and help those that are in need of tautoko [support]. I’m very grateful that the food network asked me to be an ambassador.” This collective effort aims to make a substantial difference in addressing food insecurity and reducing waste, fostering a sense of community and support during challenging times.
