The Daily Café Unveils New Community Food System Strategy

The Daily charitable trust in Te Puke is unveiling a new strategic direction focused on growing its own food and working more closely with the community through volunteering. Formed 10 years ago, the trust became an essential service providing thousands of meals during Covid lockdowns and as a school lunch provider. Recent government changes mean The Daily now provides lunches to only two schools until year-end, prompting the new approach. General manager Chrissi Robinson explained the vision: "We believe that our new strategy of growing our own food and working with our community through volunteering will make savings along the way, that we can then pass on to our community."

The new strategy includes a three-point price system offering food for free, at cost, and at market price. The Daily will continue providing free food through community partners like Poutiri Trust, Ngā Kākano, The Hub, and churches to support those who are food insecure. A fundraising event, Rolling for Good, is planned for November 22, followed by an evening of food, music, and live auction. The trust aims to create a sustainable system that reduces reliance on external funding while maintaining its community-focused mission.

Originally published in Te Puke News by Sun Media.