The sale of Waimate breeder Chris Medlicott’s ram has provided more than 4000 meals for people experiencing food insecurity across Aotearoa.
More than 4000 meals have been provided for less fortunate families from the generosity of one man and the sale of his prized ram.
Chris Medlicott, a breeder for Clifton Downs Southdown Stud, donated the proceeds from the ram he sold in his November on-farm sale to two charities that help to feed less fortunate families.
Every year, Medlicott hosts a ram sale of up to 80 sheep. After seeing South Canterbury breeding organisation Shrimpton’s Hill Herefords donate a bull to Meat the Need and Feed Out, Medlicott said making his own donation after the sale was a no-brainer.
The charities helped to turn donations of cash, livestock and milk into meals for families with help from Silver Fern Farms, Miraka and Fonterra.
The proceeds from Medlicott’s ram sale created 4295 mince and milk meals for 110 food banks and community organisations nationwide through the help of a number of charities.
Waimate breeder Chris Medlicott hosts a ram and sheep sale at his farm every year.
Medlicott said being able to donate homegrown protein to families facing food insecurity was priceless.
“It’s always a good feeling that you’re helping someone in need, and in all walks of life, really,” he said.
“I’m really proud that we produce top quality New Zealand food, but there are some people in this country who can’t afford to eat it.
“We want all New Zealanders eating produce off our farms and that was really the reason for me to donate.”
Meat the Need is a national charity helping to connect farmers with charities to help put food on the table for struggling Kiwis.
He said times were tough on farms, with inflation the highest it had been in 40 years at 16.3%, but donating was something Medlicott was passionate about and would continue to do.
“Donating is always a good thing to do, to be honest I think New Zealand society has lost the giving aspect a wee bit, so it’s nice to be able to make a bit of an impact on whoever needs it.”