Our Recipient Charities

The Hub Te Puke (operated by EmpowermentNZ)

The Hub Te Puke (operated by EmpowermentNZ) is a welcoming and safe community space fostering belonging and strengthening relationships.

At The Hub Te Puke, they have the privilege every day of seeing lives transformed and the power of hope bringing new life to those who are struggling. Whether it is someone without housing moving into a warm, dry home or a whanau who struggled financially now experiencing independence, each year is full of stories of real people finding solutions and restoration through the team's work at The Hub.

Grit, determination, and a home

Former rough sleeper, Andrew*, is rapt to have a roof over his head and a bed to sleep in every night. The Te Puke local moved into a property in August 2021. A team effort involving MSD, The Hub and Tauranga Budget Advisory meant Andrew was recommended to TCHT for new housing in Te Puke and accepted.

With Sharon (MSD Case Manager) working from The Hub one morning a week, she facilitated Andrew's income support needs without him fretting about having to go into the MSD service centre. The Hub team wrapped support around Andrew through counselling, koha (food) bags, showers, and meals, whilst Tauranga Budget Advisory assisted with financial mentoring.

Battling depression, Andrew says there have been spooky, black times, but he's come through with the help of The Hub. "Depression gets you. Being around positive people helped me. I'm stable now and looking forward to what's ahead."

*name changed to protect privacy