Supported byThe Hits Rotorua 97.5FM, the appeal runs until December 23 and aims to collect donations of food and money to help fill the foodbank’s shelves and assist the Salvation Army with continuing its work through the Christmas period and into 2024.
“We feel it’s a really important donation to make to our community, because we recognise there are so many people who will find the Christmas period really tough,” Edward told the Rotorua Daily Post.
“We’re wanting to launch the appeal with the $10,000 to encourage the community.”
Edward acknowledged the work the appeal did to bring joy to those in need at Christmastime.
Rotorua Trust chief executive Blair Gilbert said the contribution aimed to provide the appeal with a solid beginning.
“[We] hope others will join us in making a donation,” Gilbert said.
“The ongoing support of the Rotorua community towards the appeal over the years has been heart-warming.
“It is the collective effort of individuals, schools and businesses that make the appeal successful. Together we can make a difference, and Rotorua Trust is pleased to be part of it.”
Rotorua Trust trustee Cathy Cooney said helping whānau and tamariki to thrive was one of the trust’s priorities.
“The donation to the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal is one of the ways we support this goal for our community. To have sufficient food, along with treats for tamariki, is so important for every home to be able to experience Christmas joy.”
Trustee Merepeka Raukawa-Tait said summer was a time when families face additional financial pressure and do “their best with what they have”.
“The Salvation Army Christmas Appeal helps our struggling families through the generosity of others contributing to the appeal.
“Our community is very generous. Thank you to Rotorua and the wider district.”
Salvation Army Rotorua corps officer Hana Seddon said the trust’s donation was a “wonderful challenge” to other organisations, businesses, families and individuals.
“We look forward to seeing who else will come to the party, the Christmas party, and support us this Christmas Appeal.”
Maryana Garcia is a regional reporter writing for the Rotorua Daily Post and the Bay of Plenty Times.