Food Rescue organisations provide a critical service, dramatically reducing food waste and providing local communities with access to fresh fruit, vegetables and other essentials that would otherwise end up in landfill.

The Simplicity Foundation has been providing regular support to food rescue organisations during the financially stressful holiday period. While Christmas is a time of celebration for many, it can also bring significant financial pressure. For some families, making ends meet becomes especially challenging at this time of year. Periods of food insecurity highlight the vital role food rescue organisations play in bridging the gap for Kiwis facing difficult circumstances.

To help address this need, the Simplicity Foundation has a proud history of providing assistance through its Christmas campaigns. During the 2025 Christmas Giving campaign alone, the Foundation donated $184,000 to food rescue organisations across the North and South Islands.

Aotearoa Food Rescue Alliance (AFRA) represents, advocates for, and connects the food rescue sector in Aotearoa. AFRA demonstrates the measurable benefits food rescue organisations deliver within our communities. As a proud partner of the Simplicity Foundation, AFRA assists in coordinating funding to ensure support is directed to the organisations and communities that need it most.

AFRA reports that its member organisations have provided over 26,900,000 meals worth of rescued food to local communities. The impact of supporting AFRA-aligned organisations is clear. For every $1 donated, AFRA generates a social return of $4.50 for the communities it supports. The efficiency of food rescue means every donation creates tangible, measurable impact - and their commitment to helping Kiwis thrive is deeply valued by the Simplicity Foundation.

Food rescue organisations play a vital role across the country, improving lives with resources many of us take for granted. The Simplicity Foundation is proud of the tangible impact its donations have had and remains committed to initiatives that enhance the wellbeing of everyday Kiwis.