Foodbank

The spirit of giving is alive and well in South Taranaki.

Hawera Foodbank was in dire straits before its recent annual food drive, even having to split boxes of Weetbix to make them last for the many families in need.

Now Foodbank chairwoman Hazel Robinson says she can't believe her eyes, the outpouring of generosity from Hawera residents to feed those in need brings her to tears.

More than 100 banana boxes are stacked in the store room, filled with enough cereal, canned food, toilet paper and supplies to last the next six months.

While having enough food to meet the demands on Foodbank is a continuing issue and more donations are gratefully accepted, Mrs Robinson says this will relieve a bit of the pressure during the coming months.

"There were total strangers, newcomers to the district, and even a doctor came in and gave us $100," she says.

Cars have pulled up outside and unloaded bootloads of food, there have even been chocolates and treats which Mrs Robinson says will go a long way towards a little bit more special Christmas for those in need.

Loose change, mostly 10 or 20 cent pieces, fished out of pockets and dropped into a collection bucket totalled $193.70.

She says it will be just a little bit easier to buy the sausages, meat and items that are hard to donate to Foodbank, not quite so many grants will have to be sought.

It's not just food – soap, clothes powder and nappies have been donated. Even a Christmas tree.

"I just can't believe that people are so generous and have so much thought for others who are less fortunate," Mrs Robinson says. "We forever write for grants to make ends meet but, praise God, it's all coming together."

It's a personal battle for her, she can remember when her husband, Bill, was laid off, age 57, and there was money going out but no money coming in.

"Being without, it's like emptying a tank, you see the water going out and it doesn't come in.

"We need people to realise the door is always open. We can't knock on everyone's door. It was the most horrible feeling I've ever had but we got over it."

Her thanks to the community that has supported Hawera Foodbank are personal as well.

"I want it to come from my heart, it's totally overwhelming. The cupboard that once was bare is now well and truly stocked up again with a great variety of food items to help many who otherwise would have gone hungry this Christmas.
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"To Tevai Barr who organised our collection, the Scouts of South Taranaki, the drivers who provided vehicles and all those volunteers who helped in so many ways, may I, on behalf of the Hawera Foodbank extend our sincere thanks," Mrs Robinson says.

- © Fairfax NZ News Love pours in at bank
PETRA FINER- SOUTH TARANAKI STAR
Last updated 15:13 21/12/2011

PETRA FINER
Hawera Foodbank chairwoman Hazel Robinson is delighted that the recent food drive was so successful. She can now give out boxes of Weetbix to hungry families instead of having to ration them.