From Surviving to Thriving - Matilda’s Story
I discovered the Mangere Budgeting Services Trust with just a Google search. I had just left my job due to glandular fever. I was renting a house on my own; how was I going to pay my bills, let alone feed myself now?
I am really good with managing my budget and my finances. I had applied in advance for a medical benefit and calculated that after my rent and expenses were paid, I would have only $6 left for groceries and any toiletries I needed
Mangere Budgeting Services Trust - Otahuhu Office 33a Walmsley Road
I searched “food help Auckland,” and the Mangere Budgeting Trust popped up straight away. I couldn’t believe it; it was only 4 minutes from my workplace. As soon as it turned to 3 PM, I went straight there and received a food parcel within 20 minutes. I was grateful for the help, and the stress of how I would feed myself that week disappeared. However, this wasn’t a long-term solution
After discussing my situation with the CEO, I started volunteering and receiving further help until I landed a casual position, working hours in between my health crashes
Not only had the Trust assisted me with practical help, but it also helped me keep up my work strength and stamina on a very flexible, understanding schedule. I discovered I enjoyed the multitasking of tending to the food parcels, Tatou supermarket, directing people to their financial mentors, and working within the community
Matilda with our Financial Mentor - Jack
In April 2024, MBST established a social supermarket named Tatou, which offers groceries using a points system that allows shoppers to choose items based on their needs. This initiative supported other individuals facing food insecurity and financial difficulties like me
It was a full-circle experience to be on the shoppers' side one day and volunteering at the “checkout” the next
During this time, I also discovered a new sense of joy and creativity in the kitchen. The process of planning, preparing, and finalising new meals gave me a feeling of purpose and anticipation even on the tougher days. Cooking became calming and almost therapeutic for my nervous system. I found a new hobby and a deep love for cooking, especially as I began experimenting with ingredients I would never have thought to buy before, like parsnips!
I learned to create protein-packed vegetarian meals when I’d run out of meat, discovering how satisfying and inventive cooking could be when approached with curiosity instead of stress
With this experience, I discovered the importance of the MBST to the community on a deeper level than most
I found a love for community work and transitioned away from my marketing and accounting qualifications. I was happier and healthier than ever
MBST built up my confidence, health, stamina, and social skills, leading me to discover my natural passion for community work