Foodstuffs North Island has announced a new three-year partnership with the Kindness Collective that will see $100,000 contributed each year to support the charity’s programmes and initiatives. 

The funding will help deliver everyday essentials to families across Aotearoa and directly support the Kindness Collective’s Manaaki Ora programme, which provides whānau with food, winter warmth, healthcare and other essentials to support wellbeing. 
 
As part of the partnership, Foodstuffs North Island will also support the creation of a pop-up social supermarket that will run alongside the Kindness Collective’s annual Christmas Joy Store, giving families facing hardship the chance to celebrate the festive season with kai on the table and presents under the tree. Members of Foodstuffs’ executive team will also spend a day volunteering at the pop-up social supermarket. 
 
Chris Quin, Chief Executive of Foodstuffs North Island, said the partnership reflects the co-operative’s focus on supporting local communities. 
 
“As a 100% family-owned co-operative, our purpose is to help New Zealanders get more out of life. We know that starts with making sure families have access to the food and everyday essentials they need. The work the Kindness Collective does in this space is incredible, and it’s a privilege to stand alongside them to strengthen communities and support wellbeing across the North Island.” 
 
Sarah Page, Founder and Chief Executive of the Kindness Collective, said Foodstuffs’ support will have a tangible impact for thousands of families. 
 
“Foodstuffs’ commitment enables us to provide 48,000 meals to 4,000 whānau every year and helps us bring Manaaki Ora to even more families who need it. Their generosity at Christmas through Te Harikoa Mākete, the Food Market, at our Christmas Joy Store will make an enormous difference for families doing it tough, giving them the chance to celebrate the season like everyone else. We’re honoured to have Foodstuffs by our side as we continue to spread kindness and help build a stronger Aotearoa.” 
 
The Kindness Collective is a New Zealand charity that connects children and families with the things they need, from everyday essentials to moments of joy. 
 
Foodstuffs North Island is a 100% New Zealand-owned co-operative of local grocers that has been serving communities for over 100 years through its locally owned PAK’nSAVE, New World and Four Square stores.