We had the honour to speak with Kevin Stitt who is the man behind King’s Kids NZ, a ministry of Youth With A Mission (YWAM) NZ about how Christian Savings became involved in partnering with King’s Kids.
Kevin Stitt has been involved with various organisations and ministries in the country, and he has been engaged in YWAM New Zealand’s work in the country for over 40 years. He is also on the Trust for Tāhuna ki te Ao, or YWAM Queenstown which is a missions training and evangelism centre in the South Island.
YWAM started in 1988, with the mission to “Know God and Make Him Known”. It is a global movement of Christians from many cultures, age groups, and backgrounds who are dedicated to serving Jesus throughout the world. King’s Kids NZ is the childrens’ and teenagers’ expression of YWAM and seeks to lead children, youth and families to know God, bring Him joy and together make Him and His Kingdom known. This is done through outreach activities and serving communities.
Christian Savings became part of the bigger picture when King’s Kids NZ needed funding to purchase a facility in Mangere. Initially, the funding came from Presbyterian Savings and Development, and the lending side of the Presbyterian church later merged with Christian Savings. It was actually this merger that opened up the opportunity for us to be involved with YWAM NZ and offer financial assistance.
Christian Savings also had an opportunity to partner with the Trust for YWAM Queenstown through Kevin when they were looking to refinance and increase funds for development. At that time, traditional commercial banks were wary about lending money due to potential downturns in the economy caused by Covid-19. However, Christian Savings was willing to take a chance on YWAM NZ, stepping in as a partner and providing the necessary funds. The result has been increased support for their mission, as well as a strong partnership between two organisations that are focused on helping people in need.
Kevin says that “Christian Savings was very helpful, especially during Covid. They were accommodating by arranging loans for interest-only and helpful in finding ways to also fund. They have servants’ hearts.”
“Christian Savings was an answer to our prayer. You guys were very helpful. Your lending manager also came to visit the base, and you were flexible to suit our needs. Not only that, but you also provided some additional grants for us.”
King’s Kids NZ and YWAM NZ continue to make a powerful impact nation-wide and beyond especially to the younger generation. Although there have been some challenges with receiving applicants from overseas due to the Covid restrictions in recent years, it is starting to get back on track, Kevin says. They are looking towards reaching out more to the regions in the Pacific Islands.
It is exciting, inspiring, and honouring to be part of God’s work.
