In 2024 BAF supported the Waitara Pataka Kai to develop a new strategy. At the core of the new strategy was a desire to increase the ability of the Foodbank to build kai resilience alongside providing emergency food parcels for those experiencing immediate hunger.
The drivers for this new strategic approach included feedback from the local community asking for cooking classes alongside support to grow more of their own food, either at home or through a well-supported community garden.
Since completing their new strategy, the Waitara Foodbank Pataka Kai have partnered with St John’s Anglican Church and turned part of the Church grounds into a vibrant community garden. Members of the local community are also taking what they have learned at the community garden back into their own homes with increasing numbers of whanau now growing their own fruit and vegetables.
The foodbank has also expanded their cooking classes and provision of recipes to support whanau to cook nutritious meals with the food they are growing. Courses run for 9-weeks every term for all ages and abilities. Whanau groups are encouraged to attend together. They also offer follow up classes for those who want to expand their cooking knowledge. Waitara Foodbank Pataka Kai Manager, Amy Olsen, says that their classes are always full, and they have to operate a waiting list. Class sizes are usually around 20 participants.
The foodbank has also taken the lead in energising a Waitara Food Action Network to increase collaboration opportunities that will continue to support Waitara to be a kai resilient community. This is all part of the foodbank’s strategic intent to be a leader in the community supporting Waitara whanau and communities to achieve long-term food security.
BAF will continue to journey alongside the Waitara Foodbank Pataka Kai to support them to review their strategy and progress.