Hand-knitted mini stockings filled with sweets and homemade Christmas crackers are just some of the treats people have gifted to the Tauranga Community Foodbank, to spread some Christmas cheer.
Foodbank manager Nicky Goodwin said the holiday season was their busiest time of year.
She said a lot more people donatedaround Christmas and people gave really thoughtful, festive things.
But the increase in donations was coupled with an increasing need for help.
"Everything is sort of levelled up" around Christmas time, she said.
This year's Covid struggles had put even more strain on the foodbank's resources.
"This Christmas, it is all about Covid," said Goodwin.
The foodbank assists the Bay of Plenty District Health Board by providing emergency support to those who had to isolate suddenly due to Covid symptoms or exposure.
"Even though it looks like we have a lot, we have a lot of people to help."
Gastmeier said some of the most useful donations people gave were non-perishable items such as pasta and tinned food, personal care items including shampoo and soap, and tea or coffee.
And of course, they always appreciate Christmas treats.
