Taimahi Trust Empowers Disabled Youth with Innovative Social Enterprise

Northland organization fosters independence and community through employment and accessible retail.

A pioneering trust in Northland is transforming lives by providing meaningful employment and training opportunities for young people with intellectual and learning disabilities. Taimahi Trust, initially a coffee cart, has blossomed into a thriving social enterprise, offering accessible goods and fostering independence.

Expanding Horizons for Trainees

The organization, which currently supports 12 staff and 20 trainees, aims to make all its store products available online. This move will allow customers to order at their convenience, with options for delivery across greater Whangārei, including areas like Hikurangi, Te Kamo, Maunu, and Onerahi. Plans are also in place to expand delivery to new hubs as demand increases.

Rachel Hill, chairwoman and chief executive, is looking to broaden the store’s inventory to include items like cheese and butter. She hopes to offer these products at prices lower than supermarkets, even after accounting for a small profit margin, to assist shoppers on a budget and those facing food insecurity.

“Even though we’re a charity we still want to be business-like and we also want to be cheaper than other places. It helps people with their budget and people who might be food insecure.”

—Rachel Hill, Chairwoman and Chief Executive

From Humble Beginnings to Groundbreaking Model

Taimahi Trust’s journey began in 2017 with a simple coffee cart, founded by Rachel Hill and Alison Faithful. Their motivation stemmed from their sons, both with Down syndrome, who faced significant challenges finding suitable training and work. This personal drive evolved into a groundbreaking training model for young people with intellectual or learning disabilities, cultivating a supportive community.

The trust’s resilience is evident in its recovery from a post-Covid downturn that necessitated scaling back its vege box deliveries. Secured grants, notably from the Ministry of Social Development, have enabled the trust to expand its operations once more.

Building Confidence and Breaking Barriers

James Ibell-Roberts, strategic development manager, highlights the impact of customer engagement. “For us, the more people coming into the store and engaging with our trainees is breaking down the social barriers or isolation that our trainees experience,” he stated. Every purchase directly contributes to empowering and upskilling the trainees.

The trust collaborates with social enterprise Foodtogether to source affordable, nutritious food, much of which is grown by the trainees themselves. This initiative ensures accessible healthy kai for the community, whether delivered to their homes or available in-store.

Taimahi Trust’s environment is designed to be less overwhelming than traditional supermarkets, offering a more comfortable shopping experience for individuals who may experience sensory sensitivities. Future plans include providing accommodation for trainees from across Northland and developing further micro-enterprises.

The Taimahi Fresh+ store is located at 19 Bank St or accessible online at taimahitrust.org.nz for orders.