More than 14000 free meals given to Otara community
Members of the Otara community have eaten more than 14000 free meals thanks to the Ōtara Kai Village project.
Residents, food banks, The Ministry of Social Development and Foundation North are backing the initiative which aims to help struggling families.
Swanie Nelson, local Board member and Ōtara Kai Village Founder, said Otara was one of the suburbs the most severely impacted by Covid-19.
"We had the highest wage subsidy requests and the highest requests for the emergency care packages."
The mainly volunteer group works with retailers and manufacturers to support locals impacted by COVID-19 and redistribute food that would otherwise go to waste.
Residents, community groups and students from colleges in the district prepare free meals during the week in a container donated by Panuku by the AT Otara Transit Centre.
A cafe along with a Maori and Pacific boutique are open to entrepreneurs wanting to start their own businesses and to community groups running fundraising ventures.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.5% Yes, supporting people is important!
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25.2% No, individuals should take responsibility
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15.3% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Night-time chipsealing works on SH2
From 9 to 17 February, stop/go traffic management will be in place on SH2 between McPherson Road and Dimmock Road on multiple nights between 9pm and 5am (Sundays to Thursdays).
During the day, all lanes will be open, but speed restrictions will apply to allow the chipseal to set and to protect vehicles travelling over the newly laid surface.
There may be delays to your journey when travelling through the area. This is weather dependent so check NZTA Journey Planner before you travel.
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