Coeliac New Zealand is proud to acknowledge the generous support of the Lion Foundation, whose continued financial contributions enable our organisation to expand its reach and improve the lives of people living with coeliac disease across Aotearoa.
This funding supports our vital education, awareness, and community initiatives for individuals and families affected by coeliac disease - a lifelong autoimmune condition that requires strict adherence to a gluten-free diet.
“Thanks to the Lion Foundation’s support, we’re able to continue our mission of ensuring that no one has to face coeliac disease alone,” says Wendy Bremner, General Manager of Coeliac New Zealand. “Their contribution helps us connect people through local support groups, online workshops for those newly diagnosed, and national events such as the Gluten Free Food Festival, while also strengthening our advocacy for better diagnosis and understanding.”
Coeliac New Zealand works closely with healthcare professionals, researchers, and food industry partners to promote early diagnosis, food safety, and public awareness. The Lion Foundation’s generosity directly supports these efforts, helping to improve health outcomes and reduce the social and emotional challenges faced by those living gluten-free. “This partnership enables us to make a tangible difference in the daily lives of people with coeliac disease,” adds Wendy. “Recently, we launched a Masterclass Certificate as part of our Gluten Free Food Safety training. Support from the Lion Foundation has been instrumental in initiatives like this, helping us build a more inclusive and supportive community - one where everyone with coeliac disease can thrive.”
For many, this support has a deeply personal impact. Sarah Neilson, a Coeliac New Zealand member, was diagnosed 8 years ago after experiencing unexplained fatigue and health issues following her pregnancy. “When I was first diagnosed, I felt completely lost,” Sarah says. “I love eating out and travelling to food destinations, food is a big part of my family’s lives - I was very much, why me?” I catastrophised about what was safe to eat and had no idea where to start. Finding Coeliac New Zealand changed everything - from the educational workshops to connecting with others who understood. Knowing there’s an organisation out there fighting for better awareness and safer food makes such a difference. In 8 years so much has changed on the food scene due to Coeliac New Zealand’s advocacy. I was so inspired by their work that I now volunteer on the Board.”
“When I go out to eat, I need to feel confident that any restaurant I choose truly understands how serious cross-contamination is,” she continues. “It’s not about being picky - it’s about protecting my health. Eating gluten-free isn’t a choice or a preference; it’s something I must do every single time, without exception.”
Stories like Sarah’s are a powerful reminder of why community support matters. With the help of partners like the Lion Foundation, Coeliac New Zealand can continue to educate, advocate, and connect - empowering people to live healthier, happier, gluten-free lives.
Coeliac New Zealand extends its heartfelt thanks to the Lion Foundation for recognising the importance of this work and for investing in the well-being of the coeliac community across New Zealand.
