Better Communities, Stronger Futures: Why Food Resilience Matters
Food is never just food at Community Link. It represents security, dignity, and connection. And sometimes, when life takes an unexpected turn, it’s the difference between despair and hope.
Every week, we meet people who never thought they’d need help: a parent whose hours were cut, a tradie unable to work while their ute was in the shop, or a family facing unexpected medical costs. The biggest worry is often simple, how will I feed my family this week?
Thanks to the generosity of our community, within an hour we can provide a parcel filled with fresh produce, pantry staples, and most importantly, the reassurance that no one has to face this alone. As one client told us, “It wasn’t just the food that mattered, it was the kindness and the feeling of being seen.”
These stories remind us that resilience starts at ground level, meal by meal, family by family. That’s why Community Link is proud to sponsor the lunch on Wao’s Food Resilience Tour this October.
Wao’s new Food Resilience Report highlights the challenges ahead: our district currently imports 95% of its food, yet demand could double or even triple by 2050. Supermarkets carry less than a week’s worth of stock, so a major storm or Alpine Fault earthquake could leave shelves empty within days. Add to this the 120+ tonnes of edible food wasted every week, and the need for action is clear.
At Community Link, we’re already part of the solution:
The Foodbank, supported by KiwiHarvest, local donations, a community garden, and New World Wānaka and Three Parks, helps families bridge tough times.
Meals on Wheels, delivered by dedicated volunteers, ensures those who can’t cook still receive a nourishing meal and a caring connection at the door.
Our Cooking Group and WānaSoup brings people together to share skills and recipes, and to connect over kai.
Through Pantry Power, we encourage households to keep a ready pantry, building resilience in case of emergencies.
When “life happens” whether it’s a lost job, an illness, or an unexpected bill—Community Link is here to help people through. And by partnering with Wao, we’re standing alongside others who believe stronger, more connected communities are the foundation of resilience.
Food resilience isn’t just about growing more kai. It’s about creating a local, reliable food system that supports everyone. Together, we can shape a future where every person not only has enough to eat, but the chance to thrive.