Vinnies feeds hundreds over holidays2 min read

Reading Time: 2 minutes

A local foodbank stepped in to feed hundreds of families during the holiday season when some foodbanks were closed.

Tucked away in a warehouse in Onehunga, Vinnies Tāmaki Makaurau Trust, a branch of the St Vincent de Paul Society of New Zealand, was a lifeline for families in need, locally and across Auckland. During the holiday season, when many foodbanks were closed, Vinnies Food Hub remained open and became a beacon of hope to hundreds of families every week.

General manager, Delphina Soti, says their dedicated team supported up to 300 families every week from their community hub in Henderson Place, Onehunga.

Families, some coming from as far as Pukekohe, arrived at allocated times, and trolleys laden with essential food, were rolled to waiting cars at the non-contact drive-thru section at the warehouse.

The parcels included noodles, bread, fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and cleaning supplies. Baby and children’s products were also supplied, ensuring every family member is catered for. These items were made possible by generous donations from the community and corporate partners.

Not only do they hand out food parcels, but two doors away Vinnies production kitchen prepares affordable to gourmet ready-to-eat meals, that are not only convenient, but nutritious for everyone in the community. Only 10 months old, the kitchen has become a cornerstone of Vinnies’ mission. These meals, created by head chef James and his team, are cooked under strict safety standards, vacuum sealed and packed with care.

Vinnies Kitchen (VK) meals are available at the Vinnies Op Shop (345 Onehunga Mall) or via the Shopify store (vinnieskitchen.shopify.com). These heat-and-eat meals cater to all budgets and are perfect for busy families, seniors, or anyone wanting a wholesome meal without the hassle.

All profits go directly back into Vinnies’ programmes, supporting families with food security, financial resilience, and other vital services. As a way to pay-it-forward, people can also buy an Aroha Meal, and gift it to a family in need.

“We take pride in creating meals that are nutritious and tasty,” says James. “By buying a meal, you’re not feeding yourself, you’re supporting Vinnies’ mission where every meal helps us help others.”

A key part of Vinnies’ success is its volunteer programme. From chopping vegetables to packing food parcels, volunteers of all ages work tirelessly to make a difference.

Through partnerships like the DINE Gateway Workplace programme, Vinnies is helping people gain work experience and build pathways to future careers.

Beyond the food hub and kitchen, Vinnies also offers free financial mentoring to help families tackle debt, access benefits, and secure housing.

With these services, Vinnies empowers families to move from crisis to stability, creating a strong, more resilient community.