A fire at Tōtara Hospice’s distribution centre and retail store at Takanini in August struck a devastating blow for the organisation.
Fundraising Manager Kim Sinfield says it added to what was already a vulnerable time for the hospice team.
“We had recently been forced to reduce patient numbers due to a persistent funding gap with the Government, which also led to the loss of 20 per cent of our dedicated staff.”
The Takanini site wasn’t just a retail store, it was also a key distribution centre, making the impact doubly severe.
“Our op shops collectively raise around $1.5 million each year to help bridge that funding shortfall, so losing all the stock in an instant was a major financial blow. The income from the Takanini store played a vital role in sustaining our services, and the interruption to trading will have significant ongoing effects.”
The only bright spot in this dark time has been the incredible support Tōtara Hospice has received from the community.
Last month, locals laced up their shoes and walked three or five kilometres in a powerful show of aroha and solidarity as part of the Hikoi for Hospice. Organised by community leaders Pat Spellman and Matt Winiata, the event raised much-needed funds. It also increased awareness of the vital mahi the organisation does, the very real funding gap and how this affects the whole community.
Wiri Licensing Trust General Manager Kim Green was delighted to support the hikoi by providing $500 of Woodside Bar Dining and Functions vouchers as giveaways and by taking part in the walk with some of the Trust team.
“Families right across South Auckland rely on the services Tōtara Hospice provides. None of us know when we are going to need access to the leading-edge palliative care this organisation provides.”
Some of the Trust’s staff and trustees have personal experience of the work the hospice does.
Woodside Duty Manager Lou has a special place in his heart for the organisation after his father was admitted to Tōtara Hospice.
“From day one, the staff there gave my dad the highest quality of care and respect that normally only close family give, treating my dad like he was their family.”
Kim Sinfield says the support form the community has been a boost to the Tōtara Hospice team.
“It’s truly what keeps us going. Our teams and volunteers have been blown away by the aroha and generosity shown in the wake of the fire.
“It’s more than just donations; it’s a powerful reminder that the community stands with us, values the work we do, and wants to help us rebuild. That kind of encouragement lifts morale, strengthens our resolve, and enables us to come back even stronger for the people who need us most.”
Wiri Licensing Trust wants to connect with local community groups and organisations that are doing great work in our hood to understand how we can better support you – email us at info@wiritrust.org.nz.
