Trust gives $1k lift to foodbank

Tauranga Community Foodbank will be able to feed many more hungry families thanks to a generous donation by the Mount Maunganui RSA Welfare Trust.

The trust this week sent a cheque to the foodbank for $1000.

Trust chairman Ces Hughes said the purpose of the trust was to give to local charities and support organisations that needed a bit of "extra assistance".

He said the Bay of Plenty Times Christmas Appeal had highlighted the importance of the foodbank and inspired the trust to donate to the cause.

The trust, which was formed in 1999, also donated to the foodbank during last year's Christmas Appeal.

"The major thing we look to do is support our war veterans, the returned servicemen and their families, and support the charities our RSA members would use, like St John and Waipuna Hospice. I'm not saying our members need the foodbank, but it's good to know it's there if, and when, people need it," he said.

Mt Maunganui RSA president Paul Franks said the club had a responsibility to the community and donated thousands of dollars each year to local charities and organisations.

The trust will donate more than $25,000 to youth community groups on Friday, December 14.

Other organisations assisted by the trust this year include Waipuna Hospice ($4000), Kauri Centre day programme for seniors ($4000) and The Starship Foundation ($500).