About Us: Growing Resilience Together
At Food Resilience School NZ, we believe in the power of community-led initiatives to cultivate a more resilient and sustainable future, right here in Te Puke and beyond. We operate as a key initiative under the umbrella of the Vector Group Charitable Trust, enabling us to foster a range of impactful projects focused on food security, education, and community well-being.
Vector Group Charitable Trust: Our Foundation
The Vector Group Charitable Trust https://www.vectorgroup.org.nz/ serves as the guiding force and administrative backbone for a diverse portfolio of community-focused initiatives, including Food Resilience School NZ. The Trust is committed to empowering individuals and strengthening our local community through practical, sustainable projects. By providing resources and support, the Vector Group Charitable Trust enables each initiative to thrive and contribute to a more vibrant and resilient Te Puke.
Troppo Tropical Urban Food Forest and Nursery: An Initiative Rooted in Abundance
Troppo Tropical Urban Food Forest and Nursery https://www.troppo.nz is a tangible expression of our commitment to local food production and biodiversity. This vibrant space serves as a living classroom, a source of locally grown, subtropical produce, and a nursery providing unique and resilient plant varieties to the community. Troppo embodies the principles of permaculture and sustainable land management, showcasing how urban spaces can contribute to food security and ecological health.
Nursery Map: Connecting You to Local Growth
The Nursery Map initiative https://www.nurserymap.nz/ aims to connect our community with local plant resources, particularly those grown at Troppo and by other local growers. This initiative provides an accessible platform to locate specific plant varieties, learn about their growing conditions, and support local nurseries. By fostering these connections, we aim to encourage local food production and enhance the green spaces within our community.
Te Puke Digital: Empowering Through Connectivity
Te Puke Digital https://www.tepuke.digital/ is an initiative focused on bridging the digital divide within our community. Recognizing that access to information and online resources is crucial in today’s world, this initiative works to enhance digital literacy and connectivity for Te Puke residents. This digital inclusion supports access to educational resources, online learning opportunities offered by Food Resilience School NZ, and broader community engagement.
Food Resilience School NZ: Cultivating Knowledge and Skills
Food Resilience School NZ https://foodresilience.school.nz/ is our core educational initiative, dedicated to empowering individuals with the knowledge and practical skills needed to build food security at personal, household, and community levels. Through workshops, courses, and online resources, we offer accessible learning opportunities in areas such as sustainable gardening, seed saving, food preservation, and more. We believe that by equipping people with these skills, we can collectively create a more resilient and self-sufficient future.
Crop Swap Te Puke: Sharing the Harvest, Building Community
Crop Swap Te Puke https://www.troppo.nz/category/troppo-plant-and-garden-articles/initiatives-and-collaboration/crop-swap-te-puke-region/ is a grassroots initiative that fosters community connection through the sharing of homegrown produce. This regular gathering provides a space for local gardeners to exchange their surplus fruits, vegetables, herbs, and seeds. It’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste, access fresh, locally grown food, and build relationships within our community, directly embodying the principles of food resilience and sharing.
Emergency Housing Accommodations: A Safe Haven in Times of Need
Recognizing the importance of providing immediate support during times of crisis, the Vector Group Charitable Trust also offers emergency housing accommodations in self-contained vans. This initiative provides a safe, temporary solution for individuals and families in need, ensuring they have a comfortable and secure space while they navigate challenging circumstances. We are committed to supporting our community through both education and direct assistance, fostering resilience in all its forms.
By understanding the interconnectedness of these initiatives under the Vector Group Charitable Trust, you can see our holistic approach to building a stronger, more resilient Te Puke. We invite you to explore each initiative further and join us in cultivating a thriving future for our community.