New freezers heartwarming donation for foodbank

Nicki Goodwin and Tauranga Community Foodbank chairman Alan Plunkett were overwhelmed with the response to the need for new freezers. Photo / Andrew Warner

The generosity of 14 service groups, community organisations and businesses has provided Tauranga Community Foodbank with 18 new freezers.

The foodbank's existing freezers were nearing the end of their lifespan, so it put out an appeal to local organisations for help.

Manager Nicki Goodwin said within three months, the problem was solved.

Coming to the rescue were groups including Lions, Lionesses, Rotary, Freemasons, community groups and local businesses.

"We were overwhelmed with support. We achieved our goal and we didn't think we would be able to achieve it."

The foodbank's previous freezers were old and close to breaking down.

"Half [of the freezers] had potatoes sitting on top to keep the lids down."

The new freezers were also more energy efficient so the foodbank would spend less on power and more on food.

Mrs Goodwin said Harvey Norman Mount Maunganui had supplied the freezers for a good price and had also come to the foodbank building to measure the space and find the most suitable models.