A new social supermarket, Kirikiriroa’s Cupboard, will open in Kirikiriroa, Hamilton, in August.
This marked a significant step forward in efforts to improve access to food and support services for Waikato families and is a partnership between Foodstuffs North Island and local community organisation Kirikiriroa Family Services Trust.
As the first Foodstuffs-backed social supermarket to open in the Waikato, it will give families dignity, choice and access to affordable groceries, while connecting them to a range of support services to strengthen long-term wellbeing.
Foodstuffs North Island Head of Social Supermarkets, Willa Hand, said the opening reflected Foodstuffs' commitment to working alongside trusted community-based organisations to help address food insecurity in local communities.
“Every community is different, which is why we work with local partners that understand the needs of the people they support. We're delighted to be partnering with Kirikiriroa Family Services Trust to bring this model to the Waikato for the first time,” said Hand.
"Our local buddy store, PAK'nSAVE Mill Street, will play an important role in supporting the social supermarket, providing ongoing training, guidance and practical support to ensure its success."
Kirikiriroa Family Services Trust Chief Executive, Jaye Wainui, said the social supermarket has been the organisation's most significant investment in food support in its nearly 30-year history of serving the community.
"We know the need is surging due to food insecurity in the Waikato at significantly higher levels than the national average. Our collaboration will offer people greater choice and a more dignified experience while connecting them with wider support.”
Families already accessing one of the organisation's 14 social services will be able to shop at the supermarket through a koha-based model, helping them access groceries at a significantly reduced cost.
The social supermarket will operate from a recently renovated former scout hall owned by the organisation. Alongside the supermarket, a dedicated youth hub and office space will provide wraparound support services for families.
Plans are also underway to establish community gardens on adjoining land in partnership with the Kindness Collective, creating opportunities for people to grow fresh produce, learn new skills, and participate in cooking and nutrition programmes.
The social supermarket is expected to open on Tuesday, the 18th of August.
