A typical day at Te Whare Awhi is a mix of people, programmes, practical support and plenty of opportunities to connect.
Food rescue is a regular part of the day, with whānau coming through to collect kai, have a quick kōrero and take home what they need. It is a simple but important service that provides practical support to local families.
Community Lunch days bring people together to share a meal and spend some time connecting with others. The kitchen and dining area become busy as people arrive, help out and catch up with familiar faces. Kaumātua Lunch provides another opportunity for older members of our community to get together, share stories and enjoy a meal.
Alongside these activities, the Curtain Bank continues to provide practical support for whānau. Jan and Annette spend time measuring, sorting, repairing and preparing curtains to help make homes warmer and more comfortable.
Joy is working with whānau through the Healthy Homes kaupapa, providing information and practical support around keeping homes warmer, drier and healthier. This includes talking about insulation, dampness, energy use and other ways homes can be improved.
There are also times when people simply need someone to talk to. Having a welcoming space where people can come in, ask a question or have a kōrero is an important part of what Te Whare Awhi provides.
On Tuesdays, Kai Connection runs for six weeks each term. The kitchen becomes a place for learning as whānau prepare simple, affordable meals together, with Jodie supporting the sessions. It is a relaxed and practical way to build confidence and share ideas around food.
Hine’s korowai workshops provide an opportunity for people to learn traditional craft, develop their skills and work on their own projects in a supportive environment.
The learner licence programme is another area of support, helping people build their confidence and work towards gaining their licence. Each successful pass is a great achievement for the person involved.
On Mondays, Kids Club provides a space for tamariki to play, create and spend time together in a safe and welcoming environment.
Together, these activities make up a typical week at Te Whare Awhi. Some days are busy, others are quieter, but there is always something happening. Whether people come in for kai, a programme, practical support or simply a kōrero, Te Whare Awhi provides a place where whānau can connect, learn and access support within their community.
