Auckland Council’s catering services team is preparing food for Auckland City Mission during lockdown.
In a bid to help those that need it most, from 19 August the team is preparing 250 meal packs each day to be provided to those who are rough sleeping or vulnerably housed.
Auckland Mayor Phil Goff says this is one of the ways that Aucklanders pull together during times of crisis.
“We know that lockdowns can take a toll on all of us, but for the most vulnerable in our community it can be even harder. That’s why it’s so important for us to help in any way that we can.
“The council's catering team provided over 50,000 meals over five months in 2020, and I’m pleased that we have been able to put that support in place again so quickly.”
Each pack contains items including a filled sandwich roll, a salad bowl, sweets, fruit, muesli bar and either a scone or a muffin.
Auckland City Mission – Te Tāpui Atawhai – appreciates Auckland Council’s efforts says Missioner Helen Robinson. “We are so grateful to the Auckland Council team for pulling together and helping us so quickly. We simply don’t have the facilities or people power on scale right now. This is such a great example of Aucklanders helping Aucklanders.”
Auckland Council’s Head of Catering Operations Tava Feagaiga is part of the team behind the packs.
“Each lunch pack is designed to keep the recipient full for the day, so there are lots of calorie-dense foods such as sandwiches and muffins. But we also want to give people the sustenance they need, so we pop salad bowls and fruit in there too.
“We’ve helped with the lunch packs a couple of times now, so we’re able to get things organised pretty quickly and get them to the people that need them.
“We’re just glad we are able to help our fellow Aucklanders at a time they need us most.”
Chair of the Parks, Arts and Community and Events Committee Cr Alf Filipaina says “It is important to help our community through this difficult time, particularly those who are most in need of assistance.
“I would like to thank our staff from the catering team for their continued support for vulnerable Aucklanders. The speed at which the team has been able to adapt to the lockdown should be commended.
“Supporting is each other is so important to getting through COVID-19. I want all Aucklanders to stay safe during this level 4 lockdown.”
