WelCom October 2021
Scott Tynan
As an essential service during Covid-19 lockdown levels 2, 3 and 4, the Compassion Soup Kitchen has provided takeaway meals every day despite the restrictions, for ‘any and all’ Wellingtonians in need of some kai.
Guided by the philosophy of foundress, Suzanne Aubert Meri Hōhepa – ‘for all creeds and none’ – we served 230 meals a day, seven days a week. It was an incredibly busy time for us, with the demand for our meals higher than in lockdown 2020, when we served an average of 150 meals a day.
Every person who received a meal expressed their gratitude. We weren’t just providing kai; our service was providing a sense of normalcy and much-needed human connection in an isolating time and it was an honour to be a part of this.
So how do we work? Each day begins for us around 6.30am. The kitchen comes to life with chefs arriving to prepare the food that will be served at midday. Throughout the morning, members of our hard-working team assist with food preparation and packaging meals into biodegradable containers. Along with a hot meal, our food packages contain bread, dessert, fruit, snacks; and a facemask – a necessity many haven’t been able to afford. We tried to pack into every bag and as much compassion and kindness as we could.
We’re grateful to have had support from our community to be able to continue with the mission of Suzanne Aubert Meri Hōhepa, 120 years after the foundation of the Compassion Soup Kitchen and in such unprecedented times. With the help of food rescue partners, local businesses and support agencies, we were able to feed more Wellingtonians than ever before, because of their generosity and donations of food, packaging, and PPE.
To help us continue serving our community, you can donate online: soupkitchen.org.nz/donate/donate-money