Big Feed returns for those in need
Rural telethon aims to feed as many families as possible and unite communities in a fun way.
The second annual rural telethon The Big Feed is back in December with an even loftier goal than before and more high jinks planned. The telethon aims to raise as many meals as possible to distribute to families in need.
It’s being hosted by farmer-led charity Meat The Need, which facilitates donations of livestock and milk from farmers, as well as cash, to turn into meals and distribute to more than 110 food banks.
Co-founder Wayne Langford said the ultimate goal for this year’s telethon was for no one to go hungry.
“The cost-of-living crisis is placing huge pressure on people, families and food banks throughout New Zealand and the demand for Meat the Need services has increased massively,” he said. “It’s also really, really tough onfarm at the moment, over 50 per cent of dairy farmers are making losses, and the same in sheep and beef.”
Langford said the telethon was also about bringing rural and urban communities together “with a bit of fun, humour, banter and no doubt some hilarious challenges”.
“It’s been a bloody tough year for everyone and we want to shine a light on all the positive stories and things that are going on in the food and fibre sectors so that everyone can reflect and end the year on a high.”
Donations for The Big Feed can be made on the day by farmers pledging their livestock (sheep, beef and deer) or their milk through the Meat The Need website.
Cash donations can be made through the website, an 0800 number, or a text number to make a $3 donation. All donations will be turned into mince and milk and donated to food banks.
“This isn’t just about farmers giving back, we want the whole country to get in behind The Big Feed and ensure those in need have access to quality protein,” Langford said. “Together we can put food on the table and help fill empty bellies.”
Demand for food banks has increased by 165 per cent in the past three years.
“To meet that demand, we’re asking businesses and organisations, groups and individuals to get in behind The Big Feed and help by hosting their own fundraising event either on the day or beforehand.”
The Big Feed will be held on December 14 and run for about 14 hours from 6am.
The telethon will be livestreamed from Lincoln University and distributed through Meat the Need’s website and YouTube channel.
Langford and renowned celebrity TV host Matt Chisholm are co-hosting the event, set to feature a raft of challenges, panel discussions, interviews with celebrities and other ambassadors, highlight processors, food banks and farmers and incorporate live crosses from locations all over the country.
“Last year I finished the event with no hair, and Matt was also forced into shaving off his famous moustache, so we’re both looking forward to what’s in store this year,” Langford said, laughing.
“Christmas is a tough time of the year for many people and our indications show that this year, there will be more people feeling the pinch.”
Last year The Big Feed raised 1.2 million meals for food banks.
Last year I finished the event with no hair, and Matt was also forced into shaving off his famous moustache, so we’re both looking forward to what’s in store ... — Wayne Langford, Meat The Need