Brightwater Community Anglican Church is quietly making a meaningful difference through its Parish Pantry, a monthly food support service providing practical help and connection for local families.
Now running for more than a year, the programme has grown out of earlier initiatives including Kai with Love and Hapori, evolving into a dedicated service and responding to a clear and increasing need in Brightwater.
When Waimea Weekly visited, volunteers prepared 24 food parcels, about average for the month, though numbers can fluctuate. Each bag typically includes essential staples such as canned vegetables and beans, pasta or rice, sauce, cereal or oats, long-life milk, and items like tinned fruit or soup, allowing households to put together simple, nourishing meals.
The initiative is organised entirely by church volunteers and is currently funded by generous private individuals, despite the ongoing cost. Brightwater Community Anglican Church team member Susie Schruer says that if supplies run out on the day, the team will still make sure no one misses out, with parcels made up and delivered afterwards if needed.
Held once a month, usually on the third or fourth Friday, Parish Pantry is about more than food. Visitors are welcomed with a free sausage sizzle, a cuppa, and the chance to connect. While people are welcome to collect a parcel and head off, many choose to stay, chat, and enjoy the sense of community being created.
There is currently no other service quite like Parish Pantry in Brightwater. For those unable to attend before 5pm, arrangements can be made via email or Facebook through the church’s page, ensuring support remains accessible.
Through Parish Pantry, Brightwater Community Anglican Church is meeting practical needs while also creating a warm, inclusive space where people feel supported and connected. The team welcomes anyone to simply call in, with enquiries also able to be made via waimeaparish@gmail.com or the church’s Facebook page.
