06 October 2025
KickStart Breakfast’s Impact: A Community Triumph
At the heart of community-driven success stories lies passion, commitment, and a common goal—but sometimes, it also includes a hearty breakfast. This rings true for the KickStart Breakfast programme at Victory School, which has been a beacon of support and nourishment for local students since its inception in 2011. Having overcome challenges such as fluctuating numbers and Covid disruptions, the initiative is thriving once again, thanks to the dedication of its volunteers, staff, and the community. Recently we caught up with Ashleigh Della Bosca, who has been an integral part of the programme since 2016, to learn more about its impact and the sense of community it fosters.
A Welcoming Space for All
In sunny Nelson, Victory School's KickStart Breakfast programme is not just about serving food; it’s about creating a safe and welcoming space for students to begin their day on the right foot. Hosted at the local community centre that shares the school’s grounds, the programme operates on neutral territory, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and included. This practical setup, enhanced by the centre’s facilities, makes serving breakfast not just simpler but also enjoyable for everyone involved.
Numbers have fluctuated throughout the years, with the pandemic disrupting regular operations. However, the programme is thriving, now welcoming more than 35 tamariki daily. Running from 8:00 to 8:30 am, it ensures no one leaves hungry, and kai is also available outside of this time for anyone who misses the main serving. This accessibility underscores KickStart Breakfast’s mission of inclusivity and care.
The Power of Community Support
KickStart Breakfast wouldn’t be where it is today without its committed local supporters. From the extraordinary staff and volunteers who bring the programme to life to the generosity of local businesses, the community plays a crucial role. New World Nelson City lends its assistance with donations, while caring individuals contribute homemade jams, adding a heartwarming personal touch to the students’ breakfasts.
The programme operates seamlessly through a roster system managed by Ashleigh. Every day, one staff member and a couple of volunteers step in to ensure that breakfast is served on time. This organized approach guarantees that students can rely on a consistent, dependable start to their day—a small but significant source of stability in their lives.
More Than Breakfast
While a morning meal is the core focus, KickStart Breakfast offers so much more. Ashleigh emphasizes how the programme instils important life skills and fosters meaningful connections. Students not only fuel up for the day ahead but also learn the art of conversation—respectfully asking questions, listening to responses, and interacting with those around them.
The calm, supportive atmosphere provides a sense of security that sets a positive tone for the rest of their day. Parents, too, can feel reassured knowing their children are stepping into a safe and nurturing environment every morning. As Ashleigh observes, the students’ respectful behaviour and willingness to engage in thoughtful interactions are testaments to the programme’s broader impact.
Another nice aspect of the programme is the way former pupils drop in for breakfast. Usually, they are escorting a sibling to school but feel the freedom to drop in and say hi. Others just choose to have breakfast at Victory, knowing they are welcome. Connections are important in life, and these ones matter a lot.
Acknowledging Key Contributors
Behind every successful effort is a network of unsung heroes. The KickStart Breakfast programme’s smooth operations wouldn’t be possible without community involvement. A special nod goes to Shane, Tania and Aaron from the milk team in Nelson, STM Distributors Ltd, for ensuring schools in the region are stocked and cared for. Their support ensures that Victory School’s programme—and others like it—can continue serving families year-round. A group of year 6 students also need to stand up and take a bow – it’s just part of the culture now that this group take responsibility for packing down after breakfast and making sure the space is returned to normal, ready for its next user.
Finally, a heartfelt thank-you goes out to Ashleigh, her team, and the Victory community. Their dedication exemplifies the power of coming together to uplift others.
A Victory Well Earned
KickStart Breakfast is more than an initiative—it’s a lifeline for students, a space that promotes respect, dialogue, and good nutrition. It’s proof that grassroots programmes, when guided by passion and community support, can make all the difference. For Ashleigh and everyone involved, the students’ success and well-being are the ultimate reward, and this triumph is truly a victory worth celebrating.