The Craigs Christmas Giving Initiative has made a significant  difference this December to the well-being and welfare of families and citizens who need support through their registered foodbanks in Kawerau ( House of Hope ) and in Opotiki ( Whakaatu Whanaunga Trust) .

Guy Malthus, Investment Advisor to our Foundation was present this week to look first hand at the size and scale of the needs in these two, often maligned, communities. Pastors Paul and Sharon Heke, along with support from Kirsty and her team of volunteers have been the 'go-to' in Kawerau for those in need within the Kawerau & Te Teko Communities for the past 20 years. Kirsty was able to show our team how their foodbank works to help those move from dependence to independence- by the wrap around support they provide. Kirsty was quick to tell us what a generous community Kawerau is, and how the two food drives this year have helped them to meet the growing demand for assistance, along with a very generous gift from Craigs Christmas Giving Initiative- which has enabled the freezers to be filled and a few treats added for the Christmas Foodbank Boxes. 

In Opotiki Mandy and Steve Walker head up the hard working and dedicated team at Whakaatu Whanaunga Trust- providing wrap around services in the youth, housing, addiction, mental health and financial mentoring services to the Opotiki District- along with a food hub, helping to bridge the gap for families and residents when funds are prioritised for warmth and shelter, and reducing debt. Mandy is extremely thankful to the people of the Opotiki Community and their local businesses for helping them to meet the increasing demand for the food bank service. 

When we called in, Nursy Pirini ( Financial Mentor with WWT) and Mandy were finishing off the gift-wrapping of items donated by the community, to accompany the food parcels going out next week to those in need. Nursy's role with WWT - assists families and individuals towards financial freedom, and helps them to better understand prioritising their household spending. 

Our region is grateful for Craigs Investment Partners and their staff for their committment to our communities- in so many ways.