Able Minds Foodshare Team: Delivering Hope Across Dunedin

The Foodshare team at Able Minds begins their mahi every Thursday morning as the truck arrives from KiwiHarvest loaded with rescued food. Working side-by-side with the KiwiHarvest drivers, the volunteers quickly unload the truck before transforming a busy room into a carefully organised packing station. Boxes fill with fresh fruit and vegetables, pantry staples, bread, and other essentials, all thoughtfully distributed to ensure each family receives enough food for breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for the week ahead.

Each week, around seven to eight families receive these food parcels over a six-week period, providing a helping hand during difficult times. What makes this programme so special is not just the food itself, but the care, dignity, and compassion that come with every parcel packed.

The volunteers work tirelessly, sorting, lifting, packing, and planning to make sure no family misses out. Once the boxes are ready, the team loads the van and heads out across Dunedin to personally deliver the parcels to homes throughout the community.

For many of the volunteers, being part of Foodshare is about giving back and supporting others in a practical and meaningful way. They understand that a simple box of food can ease stress, create hope, and remind people that they are not alone.

Behind every parcel delivered is a team of generous people quietly making a huge difference in the lives of others – Crispin, Chris, Graeme, Phil, LJ and Thelma. Their kindness, dedication, and community spirit are truly inspiring. We think they are absolutely amazing.

Story written by Upper Clutha History Society for our Volunteer Celebration Stories campaign to celebrate National Volunteer Week 2026.