The Tauranga community really understands the meaning of Christmas spirit.
This year's Bay of Plenty Times Christmas Appeal broke last year's record of $124,191 for the Tauranga Community Foodbank with a total of $128,700.10 raised as at 3pm yesterday.
That tally consisted of cash donations of $62,026.10 and food donations worth $66,674.
What a way to end not only our annual appeal but also 2017!
Over the last six weeks, we've been blown away by the tremendous support shown to the foodbank through this appeal - and that's all thanks to the Tauranga community.
We've heard some amazing stories of children doing everything they can to help those who struggle at Christmas time, we've seen businesses and organisations make massive donations - both financial and with goods, and members of the public have not shied away from doing their part to ensure Christmas is that little bit easier for others.