anyone who's repotted a plant understands that the process of repotting is essential to the ongoing wellbeing of the plant. it can't thrive if it doesn't have space to become the plant it was created to be. but they also know that messing with the roots is stressful and that changes the way the plant responds to normal, everyday life. when the job is done well - gently, thoughtfully, into soil rich in nutrients and the right mix of attributes - then that plant recovers quickly and responds with a plant-y 'woop!' of joyful growth. and there's a difference between plants that survive the process, and those that thrive because of it.

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when humans are uprooted, it's the same thing - surviving is fine, but thriving is the goal!

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40%+ of first year students are brand new to the city they arrive in. they've left their whanau, their friends, and their support systems, and they are alone. their roots are in midair, and we have an opportunity to help land them in good soil.

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in each student hub, we have a number of key churches that are equipped with the people, the resources and the enthusiasm to embrace the kids of our nationwide church whanau as they land on our turf. 

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while our young people are still under their home roof, near the end of the year, we'll reach out, providing a point of contact for both them and their anxious parents to ask questions, iron out details and get the low down on the best noodles in town (because: priorities!).  then, once they’re on the ground in their new town, there's a wee welcome package, maybe a coffee, and if they're really lucky, they might even get a home cooked meal! 

 

and if they want a ride to church - we'll go with them.

we'll encourage them.

we'll find connections and bridge the gap.

 

we'll help them find some good soil.​