Christmas Appeal: $2k boost for foodbank coffers (+video)

A $2000 cheque will give the Tauranga Community Foodbank the ability to choose staple foods that are needed by its clients.

First Mortgage Managers chief executive Tony Kinzett yesterday handed over a $2000 cheque to the foodbank for the annual Christmas Appeal, allowing foodbank staff to make their own selections of food items.

Financial controller Roger Ford said the foodbank was something the firm had supported in the past. Earlier this year, they gave the foodbank a freezer to help store chilled foods.

"We just think at this time of year, there's a lot of families in need. We thought this time of year, it would be a nice thing to do," Mr Ford said.

"The foodbank does get things donated, but they don't really get any control over what they receive. By donating cash, they can go out and get staples or other food items they use more often than they get donated."

Mr Ford said as a Tauranga firm, First Mortgage Managers liked supporting local causes and believed the foodbank was a good cause.

The firm would continue to support the foodbank in future.

"We do try to support local causes and the manager also tries to sponsor a young athlete or performer as well."

Mr Ford said the firm's staff were all behind the donation.

The foodbank was asking for donations towards its Christmas wish list, which included Christmas goodies such as fruit mince pies and Christmas cakes, canned tuna/salmon, cake mixes, baking supplies, jellies and puddings, pasta or rice, canned foods, sauces and dressings, personal care items, and nappies.