At Presbyterian Support Otago, we work not just to support our community, but to uphold the dignity of every individual we serve – and thanks to a wonderful community collaboration, our Family Works Foodbank is now doing just that in a more sustainable way.
Last week, we officially launched our new Reusable Foodbank Bag initiative – a project that gives new life to donated curtain fabric (unsuitable for reuse as curtains) by transforming it into hand-crafted bags used to distribute food parcels.
Led by our Family Works social worker Sarah Davis, this initiative brings together the best of what our community has to offer. With the support of the Dunedin Curtain Bank, the Dunedin City Council (which provided a grant to print return-labels for the bags), and a dedicated team of volunteers dubbed "The Seam Team," we’ve already created more than 600 beautiful reusable bags.
The idea began as a conversation between Sarah and Council waste planning adviser Tess Trotter, who helped connect us with the Curtain Bank. From there, students from Columba College, individuals from local parishes, PSO staff, and sewing volunteers from across Ōtepoti joined forces to cut, sew, and label each bag – many of which are true works of art. One of our volunteers personally made more than 250 of the bags!
“These bags are more than just practical,” Sarah says. “They are made with love, and they reflect the kindness that exists in our community. Every bag helps reduce waste and – just as importantly – helps preserve the mana of those coming through our doors.”
Each week, our Family Works Foodbank distributes between 80 and 120 food parcels. Having access to reusable bags means we can reduce single-use packaging and offer our clients a more thoughtful, respectful experience.
We’re deeply grateful to everyone involved in this project. The Reusable Foodbank Bag initiative is a powerful reminder of what can happen when innovation, compassion, and community spirit come together.
Ka nui te aroha – thank you to all who made this possible.
Would you like to get involved? Volunteer with the Seam Team