All Saints Howick Food Bank serving our community for 35years

On Sunday, some of the Howick Local Board attended a special service at All Saints Anglican Church, Howick to celebrate 35 years of their food bank providing for our community.

Established in 1991 in response to the massive unemployment (11.2% in September) and “Mother of all Budgets” that saw significant reductions to welfare, the All Saints Food Bank continues to serve our community over three decades later. While the context has changed, the demand continues - last year they served 800 food parcels but have already delivered 500 in the first 6months of 2026. They noted they were providing more for children and families in need of food, as the cost of living continues to put pressure on households.

In the readings and sermon, we were reminded (and challenged) to take every opportunity to help others in need, without expectation or conditions. It was heartwarming to see the multi-faith support, with representatives from local Buddhist and Muslim groups present to support this wonderful kaupapa (mission).

I’m grateful for the amazing mahi (work) of community organisations like this, who look after our most vulnerable.