The bags are filled to the brim with a variety of fresh and packaged foods, and great importance is placed on the mix of nutritional foods, with a few Christmas treats thrown in too.
"The impact is significant, the stories are endless, and as we've seen time and time again, often this act of kindness will inspire a flow on effect with those impacted either by contributing financially, or joining the volunteer team. The more people that partner with us, the more people we can reach and help."
There are many stories of this in action, including one young mother who was diagnosed with breast cancer over the Christmas break.
"It was such a difficult time for us as a family, both emotionally and financially, and then there was Christmas just around the corner which was supposed to be a joyous time, but instead we were preparing ourselves for a Christmas Eve surgery. I got a huge surprise when a 'Gift of Groceries' pack was dropped off by a church we didn't even go to. It was more than just the food - it was the heart behind it that really impacted us."
The next year this woman and her family came along to help pack the groceries, and this year she is part of the organising team.
"When you see a need it's not hard to respond to it. When something works this good, it's hard not to be part of it. Sometimes we just have to stop talking, and start doing. It's in the action that lives are forever changed".
There are other stories that have helped shape the church's response and desire to grow this project to meet more needs. The story of the little boy who was told there would be no Christmas that year, who cries out to his Mum "We can do Christmas after all" is always a heart-warming reminder.
Or the many stories of people who were given a 'Gift of Groceries' while in hospital over the Christmas period, or tears of gratitude from families having to spend that time in the Waipuna Hospice.
There have been countless stories from the 20+ community organisations who were able to distribute the bags to their own communities, and many families who were able to breathe easier and smile during this stressful season.
The bags have traditionally been made possible by the generosity of the Curate community and individuals who have heard about the project and wanted to jump on board. And while this legacy will continue - the growing community need could use a little extra support.
Each bag is valued at around $55 but we only pay approximately $35 per bag thanks to the generosity of project partners, New World Mount Maunganui and Kiwi Larder.
The supermarket starts stockpiling products in July-August every year so the cost of these bags is kept as affordable as possible.
"It's a great partnership and an even greater example of how the business sector can really make a difference in their community."
If you would like to sponsor a bag, help with packing and distributing, or if you are a business in the position of helping us fund this Gift of Groceries project, please contact Curate Church at curatechurch.com/giftofgroceries
The Gift of Groceries packing and delivery days are happening 7-8 December.
