Major Gavin Baxter Embarks on 2,000km Walk to Support Foodbanks

Major Gavin Baxter, after over three decades with The Salvation Army, is setting out on a remarkable journey to raise funds and awareness for the organization’s foodbanks. He will walk the length of New Zealand, from Bluff to Cape Reinga, covering more than 2,000 kilometers over six months. The initiative, titled “Marching for Meals,” is scheduled to commence on January 1, 2024.

Baxter’s mission is not only to highlight the growing issue of food insecurity in New Zealand but also to replenish the foodbanks that are often depleted following the holiday season. “I’ve spent my life serving people in need, and this walk is a way to keep doing that in a different way,” he stated. The urgency of his cause is underscored by the fact that many foodbanks are left with empty shelves in January, as families continue to face challenges long after the holidays.

His wife, Bev, will accompany him throughout the trek, traveling in a campervan to provide supplies and moral support. This journey marks a significant chapter in Baxter’s life, coming shortly after his recovery from surgery and as he prepares for retirement. “I wanted to finish my time as an officer by doing something that really matters,” he explained.

Baxter acknowledges the demanding nature of his challenge but remains focused on the greater issue of hunger that affects thousands of families across New Zealand. “Walking the length of the country is no small task, but hunger is an even bigger challenge for thousands of Kiwi families,” he added.

The campaign aims to raise funds that will go directly to The Salvation Army’s foodbanks nationwide, providing essential meals and assistance to families in need. Baxter will be stopping at various Salvation Army centres along his route, where he plans to share stories, engage with communities, and emphasize the pressing need for foodbank support. “Christmas is a time of generosity, but by January our shelves are bare,” he noted.

In partnership with Real Meals, the campaign will ensure that Baxter remains well-nourished during his arduous hike, benefitting from nutritious meals as he progresses northward.

Supporters can contribute to this vital cause by visiting the Marching 4 Meals website. Every dollar raised will be crucial in ensuring that families do not go hungry in 2024. Major Gavin Baxter’s journey is not just a personal farewell; it is a rallying call for all New Zealanders to ensure that no family has to face the struggles of food insecurity.