FMG has successfully completed a project aimed at providing support to residents of New Zealand's East Coast, particularly in the areas of Gisborne and Wairoa.
The initiative resulted in the distribution of over 450 prepared freezer meals to help those affected by the harsh weather conditions throughout 2023.
The project was a collaborative effort between FMG and local entities, including Farmlands stores and the Gisborne-based caterer, Black Fig. The meals were stored in chest freezers at local Farmlands stores, regularly stocked by Black Fig.
Karen Williams, national rural propositions manager at FMG, stated that the project was inspired by discussions on how the insurer could assist the rural communities on the East Coast more effectively, especially during the busy farming period following the winter months.
“We were coming out of the dark winter months last year, and we knew things would be getting busy on farm. Food was one thing we could all agree on that was a great pick-me-up when the chips are down,” she said.
The distribution was facilitated through partnerships with community organisations such as the Rural Support Trust and Hear4U. These groups helped in delivering the meals to those in need, with FMG staff also personally delivering meals during client visits across the region.
Rural Support Trust's facilitator in Wairoa, Kylie Brown, reported that the meals were warmly received and provided considerable relief.
“Being able to rock up to someone's home and deliver a few delicious wholesome meals that they didn't need to think about when times were tough, took a huge weight off their shoulders. The feedback has been so positive, and I have been privileged to physically see the appreciation in people's faces,” Brown said.
Krissy Mackintosh, general manager of Hear4U, added: “It was thoughtful Koha that symbolised empathy, respect, and ensured troops have been fed. As a result of Cyclone Gabrielle, many marriages have endured really tough times – financially, mentally, and physically. These meals have been instrumental throughout the healing journey of those that connected with #Hear4U.”
As a final step in this community support initiative, FMG has decided to donate the chest freezers used in the project. The initiative follows FMG's distribution of more than $260 million to communities affected by the destructive forces of Cyclone Gabrielle and the Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods.
