Meat co-op dilemma
Meat processor Alliance Group's cash-strapped farmer shareholders face a dilemma - either pour more money into the co-operative or risk losing 100% ownership and control.
The independent charitable trust provides free accommodation and support to families who need to travel to Christchurch and Invercargill for their children's medical treatment.
The partnership agreement will see Alliance provide support for the Ronald McDonald House major 2021 fundraiser - the annual Supper Club events in Christchurch, Queenstown and Invercargill - and donate meat for a range of events throughout the year.
Alliance will also play a key role in the charity's Host a Roast month in July - when people are encouraged to host a roast, brunch or lunch and invite friends and colleagues to attend for a $20 donation to support the Ronald McDonald House programmes.
"Ronald McDonald House is very close to the hearts of many of our people, our farmer shareholders and the wider community," says Alliance Group chief executive David Surveyor.
"A number of our employees and farmers have used Ronald McDonald House programmes and appreciate the very valuable role it fulfils. We also look forward to developing opportunities for Alliance staff through volunteering and participation."
He says the cooperative has also supported Ronald McDonald House South Island through product donations.
"We are delighted to be forging closer ties with this important charity," Surveyor says.
He says Alliance was first introduced directly to Ronald McDonald House South Island by members of the co-op's livestock team.
"Our involvement stemmed from the commitment of our people. Ronald McDonald House South Island and Alliance have much in common. We both have built a solid foundation on values - compassion, care and communication - and a passionate commitement to the wellbeing of our rural communities.
"All of the Ronald McDonald House major fundraising events share a common thread, the coming together of people to share a meal and connect - just as the families that stay at Ronald McDonald House do every night.
"Alliance is all about providing high quality food from farm gate to plate to connect people across the globe. We are excited to now be formally working together."
Ronald McDonald House South Island chief executive Mandy Kennedy says "This is the first year Ronald McDonald House has partnered with Alliance Group on our Supper Club events and we are delighted to have the opportunity to work with a naming partner so aligned with our own values."
She says it costs $1.4 million to annually operate the facilities.
"That is why it is so important to raise funds through events like Supper Club with the support of Alliance Group."
Ronald McDonald House South Island operates three programmes in the South Island - Ronald McDonald House in Christchurch, a Ronald McDonald Family Room in Southland Hospital, Invercargill, and a Family Room is due to open in the new Christchurch Hospital building this year.
