As households across Aotearoa brace for the colder months, the New World supermarket chain has launched its annual Family2Family food bank appeal, now in its sixth year, reaffirming its commitment to supporting local communities facing economic hardship. The initiative, running from Monday, 28 April to Sunday, 25 May 2025, facilitates direct support between shoppers and their neighbourhood food banks or City Missions.
Underpinning the nationwide effort is a significant corporate pledge, with New World committing $250,000 to bolster the resources of City Missions and community food banks throughout the country. This financial injection comes at a critical time, as providers prepare for traditionally higher demand during winter.
The Family2Family campaign operates on a principle of localised giving. Each New World supermarket collaborates directly with a nearby food bank or City Mission, ensuring that customer donations remain within the area they were contributed, fostering a direct connection between donors and recipients in the same community.
Shoppers are invited to participate through accessible methods designed for convenience. They can either collect suggested food bank-friendly items and deposit them at designated collection points within their local New World store, or opt to purchase a pre-packaged $20 Family2Family donation bag, available both in-store and through the supermarket’s online shopping platform.
“Our Family2Family appeal gives New World shoppers an easy and practical way to make a difference,” said New World spokesperson Giselle Bleakley. “It’s a chance for families to help other families by donating nutritious food and everyday essentials to those doing it tough.” To simplify the process, participating stores will highlight suitable donation items on shelves, complementing a full list available on the New World website.
Essential pantry staples such as rice, pasta, canned goods, spreads, and breakfast cereals form the core of requested donations, alongside vital toiletries. Organisers also encourage the inclusion of small treats, like biscuits or chocolate, recognising these simple gestures can bring moments of joy to individuals and families navigating difficult circumstances.
The significance of the annual appeal was underscored by Wellington City Missioner, Murray Edridge. “Family2Family is so essential for the things that we do,” he stated. “The generosity that comes from these amazing gifts from the general public, with the help of New World, enables us to stock our social supermarket and support the community.” Mr Edridge noted the campaign’s vital role in meeting the escalating demand food banks often experience heading into winter.
The appeal provides a tangible way for New Zealanders to contribute directly to alleviating food insecurity within their own towns and cities during the four-week campaign period. Further information and online donation options can be found at newworld.co.nz/family2family.