Ian Jones: Embracing the spirit of giving

Amidst the festive cheer, the twinkling lights and the excitement of gift exchanges, it’s important to remember those who are struggling at this time of year. In New Zealand alone, 1 in 5 children live in households without sufficient access to food, and almost 20% of children live in households where food often runs out¹. For these individuals and their families, Christmas can be a particularly tough time. This is when the power of community and the act of giving can have a huge impact.

This festive season, we took the opportunity to speak with Ian Jones, a strong advocate for supporting New Zealand communities and making a difference. Chatting with Ian, we explore why it’s so important that Christmas is centered around community, the benefits of giving, and how we can foster a culture of generosity this holiday season. We also shed light on worthy causes New Zealanders can support this Christmas, not just through monetary donations but by also giving their time.

Christmas is a time that encourages us to step outside of our individual lives and consider the wellbeing and needs of our wider community. The concept of giving helps to strengthen our community bonds and foster a spirit of unity at a time of year when many will be feeling worried about money, lonely or stressed.

As a dedicated community advocate and founder of Eddie’s Meals – a food and friendship kitchen offering free meals – Ian believes that the concept of giving is particularly significant during the holiday season. There are many people in the community who, for various reasons, may not have family around them or have lost loved ones, leading to feelings of loneliness or loss. Ian points out that volunteer work and acts of kindness can help fill this void. Small gestures like taking the time to talk to someone or sharing resources can bring hope, friendship, and love to others. These acts of giving also bring joy and a sense of purpose to those who give, making it a rewarding experience.

Beyond spreading Christmas cheer, giving back has far-reaching benefits that positively affect our mental health. The Mayo Clinic emphasises that the art of kindness goes beyond mere behaviour. It’s about cultivating a spirit of helpfulness, generosity and consideration, all without expecting anything in return. It is through these actions that we can have a huge impact on the lives of those who might find Christmas a difficult time. Kindness is proven to improve your wellbeing, boost self-esteem, empathy and mood, and can even reduce blood pressure and stress levels. It also fosters a sense of connection, reduces loneliness and enhances relationships².

Kindness also benefits the mind. According to Mayo Clinic, it stimulates the release of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters responsible for feelings of satisfaction and well-being. Showing kindness can also trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller³.

Ian and his family are dedicated to helping others, which he says has provided them with a sense of social consciousness and a feeling of fulfillment. He enjoys being part of the community, listening to people’s stories, and showing everyone respect.

Ian cherishes the special moments shared with those who regularly attend Eddie’s Meals. These interactions bring him joy and a sense of balance, improving both his physical and mental wellbeing. He looks forward to hearing stories from people who visit their food kitchen, gaining knowledge and understanding from their experiences. He says this shared wisdom is invaluable. 

Ian believes that balance in life is key. He maintains this balance by fulfilling various aspects of his life: physical wellbeing, family, community and work. Volunteering provides Ian with a chance to step back, reflect on his life and check in on how he’s doing. The reciprocal nature of these interactions, where people ask about Ian’s own wellbeing in return, provides valuable moments of reflection. 

Christmas, a time for reflection and looking forward, brings people together, creating a sense of community and collective joy. The collective joy, or “collective effervescence” as termed by sociologist Émile Durkheim, can be experienced even in smaller gatherings, and can result in positive feelings and behaviours such as altruism and generosity⁴.

In terms of rallying the community during the festive season, Ian believes that businesses and organisations play a significant role in promoting a culture of giving and community. While acknowledging the contributions many businesses and organisations already make to their local communities, Ian notes that many are keen to give - but may need direction on how best to do so.

And it’s not all about giving monetary donations. Individuals and families can actively engage with their community and give back by showing simple acts of kindness, like offering food, volunteering, or spending time with those who are away from or without loved ones. These acts not only uplift the recipients, but also positively impact those who give. 

Ian encourages people to support those who are struggling, particularly the youth, as they have the potential to bring about great change if given the right support. The sense of purpose, hope and joy that can be brought to people through initiatives like food kitchens, is invaluable.

Ian suggests several causes and charities in New Zealand that could benefit from community support this Christmas. Food banks and toy drop-offs are valuable resources for those in need. He encourages those who are able, to consider buying extra essentials like food or nappies to donate. Volunteering at food kitchens and engaging in conversations with those they serve, is also a great way to show support.

Kiwis can give back this Christmas in several ways, some of which are listed below:

• Contribute to the Christmas Joy Store run by The Kindness Collective: this initiative allows parents and caregivers in need to shop for free Christmas presents and food for their children
  
• Donate to local city missions: these organisations help those in need enjoy a special Christmas. Donations can be money, food or gifts. Here are a few: Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch
  
• Support Ronald McDonald House Annual Christmas Appeal: your contribution helps families with children in hospital enjoy Christmas together by covering accommodation costs and meals
  
• Assist Everybody Eats: a charity that serves pay-as-you-feel food that would otherwise be wasted. You can help by making a donation, giving gift cards, or signing up to volunteer at one of their dinners
  
• Donate a Christmas Box: this feeds a family in need for just $40. Christmas Box aims to pack 45,000 boxes this year to give hope to those who need it most
  
• Join the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal: there are several options for your Gift of Hope, including donating a food parcel or a gift under the tree to offer stability to families in need. If you have a neighbour, workmate, friend, or know of someone who is alone on Christmas, invite them to share a meal with you and your loved ones
• There are a number of community events that happen over the Christmas period that rely on the generosity of volunteers. Check out what’s happening in your local community to see how you could donate your time to help others.

In terms of his own plans this Christmas, Ian is hosting a festive meal at Eddie’s Meals, donating toys to the Kindness Collective’s Christmas Joy Store through AIA NZ, and spending time with the Salvation Army in Glenfield.

Ian encourages everyone to embrace the spirit of giving, not only during Christmas but throughout the year. Taking the first step might be hard, but in doing so, people will find a supportive and welcoming community that will enrich their lives, regardless of the month or season. Ian encourages families to set an example for their children, fostering a culture of giving that will be passed down through generations.

While not everyone has resources to give, lots of people can offer their time, which Ian considers to be the greatest gift. Small gestures like saying hello, buying somebody a bite to eat, or just taking the time to chat, can make a significant difference. Volunteering doesn’t have to involve money or resources, just time and a willingness to connect with others.

This Christmas, consider making a contribution to your local city mission, donate a Christmas Box to feed a family in need, or volunteer your time serving food at your local food kitchen. In doing so, you will not only providing tangible help to those in need but also fostering a sense of community and enhancing your own mental health. After all, the true spirit of Christmas lies in giving and sharing love with those around us.