by Jacqui Stanford | Aug 4, 2026 | Bellyful News, Uncategorised, Volunteer Stories, Whānau Stories
When a Bellyful volunteer knocked on Riika’s door during COVID, she thought she was simply receiving a few meals. Five years later, as Branch Coordinator of Bellyful Whitianga, Riika can see that knock gave her something even more important: connection, friendship and...
by Jacqui Stanford | Jun 15, 2026 | Bellyful News, Volunteer Stories, Whānau Stories
At Kidz First Children’s Hospital in South Auckland, families arrive every day carrying far more than overnight bags. Some have travelled from Pukekohe. Others from Ōtara, East Auckland and across the wider South Auckland community. What they share is the same worry...
by Jacqui Stanford | May 4, 2026 | Bellyful News, Whānau Stories
“I was a mum, with two under two. I didn’t realise how challenging it would be.” When Laila welcomed her second baby, life quickly became a juggle. With a newborn and a toddler at home, and her partner working full time — and spending his spare time renovating their...
by Jacqui Stanford | Feb 9, 2026 | Whānau Stories
When Charlotte heard about Bellyful at a mothers’ group, she was already carrying more than most people could see. “I had post-partum depression and as a first-time mum I didn’t realise how different it would be adjusting to a new ‘normal’. Even the littlest of help...
by Jacqui Stanford | May 8, 2025 | Whānau Stories
“Superstars!!” – That’s what Kyla calls the Bellyful volunteers who helped her whānau through some of their hardest days. With a newborn in hospital and a toddler at home, Bellyful meals gave her family something they desperately needed: time together. When...
by Jacqui Stanford | Mar 6, 2025 | Whānau Stories
The arrival of a new baby is a life-changing moment, but for Ashleigh and her whānau, joy was quickly met with sorrow. Just days into parenthood, they found themselves navigating not only the demands of a newborn but also the sudden loss of her mother-in law. “Aside...
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