Food Bank Finds New Home

The Kāpiti Community Food Bank is once again open to the public after working with Kāpiti Coast District Council and the Transport Agency to set up in new temporary premises.

The local food bank had been without a home since having to move out of its previous location in April.

When the food bank approached Council for help, staff got in touch with the NZ Transport Agency about the property on Kāpiti Road formerly occupied by Paraparaumu Medical Centre. The Transport Agency had purchased the property as part of the Kāpiti Expressway construction and had used it as an office during the development of the Mackays to Peka Peka section of the new road.

The building had been empty since the completion of the M2PP section, and in recent times squatters had moved in and caused considerable damage. The parties worked together on a deal that has seen the Transport Agency grant the food bank a six month lease at no cost. After this six-month period, the lease will be rolled over on a month by month basis, until the building is sold. The Transport Agency also agreed to repair all of the damage caused by the squatters, and to carry out the necessary tests to ensure the building was fit for use.

This work was completed last week and the food bank was able to officially open its doors on Wednesday.

“This is a great result,” said Council Programme Advisor (Social) Claire Rewi. “Its temporary closure put a real strain on other groups that provide similar services in the region. This has highlighted the importance of the food bank to many in our community, and its fantastic to see them back up and running.”

The organisation’s management committee said they were grateful to the many people who helped them reach this outcome.

Secretary Mary Pincott said Council staff had “worked tirelessly over many weeks, using their many contacts to resolve numerous stumbling blocks along the way.”

“We live in a wonderfully generous community,” said Ms Pincott, “and we look forward to once again being able to assist those who really need our help.”

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