Volunteers dedicated to Salvation Army cause

Salvation Army foodbank volunteers Margaret Stephens (left) and Jan Beazley. Photo/Stephen Parker

Together Rotorua's Margaret Stephens and Jan Beazley have volunteered for more than 30 years at the Salvation Army.

Every Monday and Tuesday the pair beaver away in the background, sorting, dividing and packing parcels in the foodbank for families in need.

Beazley has dedicated 17 years to the Salvation Army, while Stephens has dedicated 14.

"I started volunteering after doing a first aid course. I was a very shy person and the officer came and gave me a hug. It surprised me. She asked if I would consider volunteering and that was that," Beazley said.

"I had moved from Gisborne and was looking for something to do. I didn't know anyone so thought this would be a good way to get involved in the community," Stephens added.

Nearly two decades on and the duo are steadfast in their commitment to the charity.

Both agreed the need in the community had become greater in recent years.

"We used to do very basic food parcels, now the parcels contain everything," Beazley said.

"Housing is a big thing, people not being able to find a job, then those that can find jobs tend to only be able to find part time work and it's not enough to tide them over.

"We're seeing more and more grandparents coming in asking for a bit extra because they've suddenly got their grandchildren living with them and they don't have anything."

Stephens said the need was "never-ending".

"We had one woman approach us saying if it wasn't for the Salvation Army, she wouldn't know where she would be."

The pair said the community's generosity was amplified during the annual Rotorua Daily Post Christmas appeal.

"We are very thankful to all those who give. We couldn't do what we do without them," Stephens said.

"We rely on the community and the community relies on us."

Community ministries team leader Tania Hore said people volunteering their time allowed the Salvation Army to provide a better quality service for its clients.

"The work these volunteers do is very time consuming so having them take that off our hands frees us up to spend more time with our clients.

"Christmas is a crazy time for us. Across November and December we are full on so being able to rely on people like Jan and Margaret is huge. We know they're going to be there ready to help.

"Their contribution to the community is hugely appreciated."

Salvation Army foodbank volunteers Margaret Stephens (left) and Jan Beazley. Photo/Stephen Parker