Father Maliu ‘Otutaha and a group of dedicated volunteers worked for several days in September to fill up more than 400 boxes of food and supplies for struggling households in the North Hokianga.
A good part of the floorspace in St Peter’s church in Panguru was filled up with supplies, which were sorted and placed in whanau food parcels. More than 15 people put their hands up to help with this work.
The food arrived from Auckland in bulk – more than 2000 kg of flour, 600 kg of rice, 675 kg of sugar and 237 kg of milk powder was divided, measured, and repacked into 2-3kg ziplock bags. Other supplies were either in smaller amounts or already in pre-packed in “per whanau” quantities.
Boxes were distributed to Motukaraka, Kohukohu, Mitimiti, Rangi Point, Waihou, Panguru, Pawarenga, Te Karae, Broadwood, Mangamuka Bridge and other places.
The food was made available after an emergency appeal was set up in August by the Catholic Caring Foundation of Auckland diocese.
Parish programme coordinator for Northland Wiga Autet helped with the work in the North Hokianga, and she expressed her gratitude to the Caring Foundation.
“Immense thanks. Nga Mihi Aroha to the Catholic Caring Foundation for their generosity and support, and to Ann Marie Parker (manager CCF) for the leadership and swift organisation of this help. There will be many happy faces and families thinking of you with gratitude.”
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