A collaboration between Waiariki Whānau Mentoring and the Eastern Bay Community Foundation brought kai to the homes of 164 kaumatua.

During a karakia before the parcel packing began on Wednesday, Waiariki Whānau Mentoring board chair Waata Heathcote said the project was to support the most vulnerable population.

“This is more than just a pack of kai; it’s going to save some lives. There is nothing too joyous about Christmas for those in our space, we want to take the pressure and stress off our most vulnerable,” he said.

Kaumatua from Ōpōtiki, Kawerau and Whakatāne have received deliveries of staple foods, some chocolate and a loaf of bread.

Mr Heathcote said the Christmas season was a struggle for kaumatua having to feed extra whānau in their house over the holidays.

“Food consumption in the household has increased. To leverage this and bring equilibrium, something like this helps bring balance for any other costs they might have through Christmas.

“We want to show love where in many circumstances people don’t feel loved. Some people are living in isolation; they don’t have support or company.”

Eastern Bay Community Foundation engagement manager Mike Howe said the foundation were “massive supporters” of the initiative.

Community Foundation manager Angela Jackson said they were expecting to make 120 parcels, but on Tuesday, they found they had 164 requests.

“We just made it work. We heard through the comments on the self-referrals how much of a need was out there,” she said.

Craigs Investment Partners donated food through its giving initiative, and Here to Help U organised the referrals.

“Seeing this need in the community, we always want to be able to respond to it, it’s so nice to knock on someone’s door and spread some joy,” Ms Jackson said.