How can churches help tackle some of the biggest challenges facing their communities? The Kaurihohore/Kamo Co-operating Parish brought together local experts, community organisations and residents for a six-week series exploring issues such as child poverty, housing, addiction, crime and Māori wellbeing. Through honest conversations and a shared commitment to justice, participants identified practical ways to strengthen connections and create positive change across Whangārei.

From a converted building on the edge of Saint Kentigern College, The Shed has grown into a vital food distribution hub supporting Auckland families through hardship. Established during the 2020 lockdown by the Saint Kentigern community, The Shed works alongside trusted social workers and partner schools to deliver food parcels with dignity and privacy at the heart of every delivery. With 70 boxes now distributed each week and hundreds of thousands of dollars in food and support provided since its founding, this student- and family-powered initiative continues to prove that even a small space can hold extraordinary generosity.

Whare Kai: A hand up, not a hand out describes how Have a Heart evolved its Covid-era food parcel service into Whare Kai, a community food hub that prioritises dignity, choice and sustainability. By redistributing rescued food, supplying local Pātaka Kai, and creating volunteering and employment opportunities, Whare Kai strengthens food security, empowers people, and builds a culture of connection and generosity across the Eastern Bay of Plenty.