Gratis: In their words
Ask someone at Central Vineyard, “What is Gratis?” and they’ll probably say, “It’s a community meal downtown for the whānau.”
But linger a little longer—listen to the voices of those who turn up week after week, cooking, chopping, serving, praying—and you’ll hear a deeper story. A story not just about food, but about dignity. Not just about giving, but receiving. A story of Christ among us, showing up on the streets with no fanfare, just casseroles and quiet compassion.
So this July, as part of our Gratis Mid-Winter Appeal, we asked the Gratis team to share a glimpse of what they’ve experienced.
Here’s Gratis—in their own words.
Why do you volunteer at Gratis?
For Matau, it’s about perspective. “Some people are just less fortunate than us,” he shared, “but that doesn’t make us superior to them. We can receive smiles, but also deliver them—by feeding hungry stomachs.”
Mary volunteers because she knows the reality up close. “We’ve had family and friends in the same situation. It is very humbling and it is one way that I can help.”
For Whaimana, it's deeply personal and spiritual: “To feed my desire for Christ.”
And for Robyn, it’s a long-held desire to live out her faith in real, practical ways. “We’re called to be the hands and feet of Jesus”. She loves that this is at the heart of Vineyard Values and was excited to hear CV had Gratis, a space where she could “extend love to someone who might not know much love and kindness in their world.”
What has the Gratis experience been like for you? Has it taught you anything?
Over time, many of the team have found themselves changed—not just in what they do, but in how they see.
“Gratis has shown me that everyone has their own story,” Judy reflected. “ I had the opinion that with a social welfare system no-one should be homeless…Gratis has shown me that everyone has their own story and is deserving of basic needs and regardless of who they are or what they’ve done or experienced, I am in no position to make judgement on this issue.”
Matau’s reflection was simple but profound “I've learned more about how respect is given/taken.”
For others, it’s been about the hidden gifts—those small, unexpected and delightful moments in the middle of the ordinary.. “I've enjoyed doing Gratis because there's some cool interactions” said Foi. “I remember this guy was jamming on the guitar and he was surprisingly good!”
Karen valued the relationships forming in the cook team and her recent experience going to the street to hand out meals: “We chat while we’re chopping, and it’s a bit like a Circle. More recently, I’ve been going out in the evening to hand out food, it’s been humbling to see and hear the gratitude from those we are feeding.”
Mary said, “Probably the most special thing is that people become individuals when you hear their names and their stories”. She also treasures the moments where God moves “it’s wonderful to pray with people and see God's spirit touch the broken in our city.”
Others mentioned the joy of being part of a team, the satisfaction of contributing, and the gift of seeing the world differently. “You see from a whole different perspective,” Whaimana said. “It teaches you to be humble and down to earth.”
WHat would you say to someone considering giving gratis a whirl?
When we asked this, the answers were simple, kind, and encouraging—just like the spirit of Gratis itself.
“Give it a try—you might enjoy it,” said Foi. “There’s no pressure in this, just pure kindness.”
“If it’s not for you, it’s not for you,” added Whaimana, “but there’s no harm in giving it a go.”
Robyn described the atmosphere as casual and warm, welcoming new volunteers wherever they are at. “You don’t even have to talk if you don’t want to. You can just hand out food—or you can go around and strike up conversations. It’s whatever you’re comfortable with.”
Kalais chimed in too: “Go for it. See what it’s like giving back to the community and see how many people will be very thankful for your efforts.”
And Judy, with her classic cheekiness, said simply: “Welcome aboard. It’s kind of crazy but awesome at the same time. You will be blessed.”
MORE THAN A MEAL
Gratis is about “creating whanaungatanga through hospitality, care and compassion that reflects and points to Jesus”. And we love seeing that come to life in the volunteer reflections.
This July, as part of our Mid-Winter Appeal, we’re inviting you to be part of this ongoing story. Whether it’s collecting, cooking or serving—maybe it’s your turn to give it a whirl.
No pressure, just pure kindness.
If you are curious about giving Gratis a try, we’d love to have you. Email Rob about joining in one Monday and find out more here.