Sutherland and Webster registered as a charity last year, clearing the way to apply for funding as the need for their services had grown steadily.
The pair’s first application for major funding was successful – they received an $82,160 grant from the Lottery Grants Board.
“We’re hoping to be in (the new premises) in the first week of April, all going well, but there’s a bit of work to do,” Sutherland said.
She said the pair are grateful to the board, as the amount will be enough for a year’s lease on the new premises, operating costs including a large freezer to help hold more frozen food, and the purchase of a new van to pick up food from suppliers.
The foodbank receives donations from a range of suppliers, including Foodbank Canterbury.
The operation is a family affair with whanau helping with the food parcels, as well refitting the new premises. Sutherland’s brother Cory is a qualified builder, who is donating his time to do the fit-out, with help from Webster and others.
The need for food parcels is growing in the community, and Sutherland and Webster are now seeing families with both adults working who are struggling to make ends meet.
“We generally see our repeat customers on the day their power bill is due, but these days we have a whole new clientele, every week we’re seeing people we’ve never seen before,” said Sutherland.
The Hoon Hay Foodbank is calling the shift to McCarthy St “maunga kai nekeneke”, which translates as ‘moving food’.
Said Sutherland: “The move will be so beneficial to us, our community, and the families we help.”
The foodbank is planning a launch when it opens the doors to the new premises next month.
