Our Christmas Story
‘When she said, “You’ve come to the right place. We can help you,” I nearly cried on her lap that day,’ recalls John. ‘It was kindness. It was love. No judgement—just understanding. Just, “You can do this.”’
After years of battling addiction, John’s life changed dramatically. Thanks to your compassionate support, John, his wife, Jess, and their children received the wraparound care, including food support, they so desperately needed.
Your generosity provided food parcels, warm clothing, Christmas gifts and financial mentoring. But one gift stood out—a cuddly bear named Koha for their son Olly, which brought comfort and a renewed sense of hope to the whole family.
This Christmas, there are many people in need who need to hear those same words of encouragement: “You can do this.”
We know you care deeply about people in need. For John, the food support that he received provided not only food to go in the cupboards but much-needed stability for him and his family.
‘When I first came in, it was close to Christmas. They put us on the list for a food parcel. It is a warm feeling when you are getting love from the community. We had a roast meal and a pavlova,’ said John.
Would you consider making a generous gift to help Kiwis like John and his family receive vital food support this Christmas? Your gift could provide a kai parcel from one of our food banks for a family bringing joy and easing the financial pressure on them at the same time.
Last year, thanks to your generosity, we provided over 89,000* food parcels, food vouchers and Christmas hampers to families and individuals. This year, we hope to provide even more.
This year has been tough for many Kiwis financially. We know that some of you—our loyal and faithful donors—are feeling the pressure too. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are deeply grateful for everything you do to support the mission.
Today, John and Jess’s family are no longer in crisis—they are restored and thriving. In a beautiful full-circle moment, they now volunteer at
a Salvation Army food bank, giving back to the community. ‘I thought, “I’m going to volunteer.” It wasn’t because I felt like I had to. It just felt right to give back,’ said John.
The transformation came full circle when Olly, recognising the comfort Koha the bear had brought him, gifted his beloved bear to another child in need—so passing on hope to a new family beginning their own journey of healing.
As John and Jess’s story draws to a close, symbolised by their son’s act of kindness and generosity towards another little boy, Noah, we are so grateful for your support. Their story is a poignant reminder of how the spirit of giving can bring healing, hope, joy and connection.
In the same spirit of kindness and generosity would you consider making a gift today to provide food support for someone in need?
Your kind gift of $30 could provide pantry basics for a week.
Your thoughtful gift of $60 could provide a family with breakfasts and lunch for a week.
Your generous gift of $120 could provide food support to a family this Christmas.
Thank you!