As the Greater Wellington region’s community foundation, Nikau Foundation has a mission to build healthy, thriving and resilient communities, ensuring everyone has the tools and resources they need to flourish.

This year the Compassion Soup Kitchen was awarded two transformational grants from the Foundation: one for staff training from Nikau’s Margaret Neave Endowment Fund, and another towards upgrading the IT system from the Kevin and Julia O’Connor Endowment Fund.

In the modern world, technology has permeated nearly every aspect of our lives and the Compassion Soup Kitchen is no exception. New computers and improved internet access will play a pivotal role in the Compassion Soup Kitchen’s impact on Wellington’s vulnerable community. Computer access for guests will help improve digital literacy skills, whilst new computers will make volunteer coordination and inventory management easier for staff.

The second Nikau Foundation grant from the Margaret Neave Endowment Fund will have a long lasting impact on the care, safety and welfare of staff, volunteers and whānau. Staff will be trained in a range of subjects including New Zealand Sign Language, first aid, mental health first aid, conflict awareness, and safety and fire warden and extinguisher use.

Nikau Foundation’s grants exemplify the enduring power of generosity and community support. By investing in the Compassion Soup Kitchen, they are not only providing tangible resources, but also sending a powerful message that everyone deserves dignity, nourishment and opportunities for growth.

Thank you to the following Trusts and Foundations for your support this year.