Cubro collects foodbank donations for Christmas Appeal

Kerryn Wood, from Cubro, says about four boxes have been filled with donations so far and the company will continue collecting for the foodbank right up until December 12. Photo / Andrew Warner

The generous spirit of Tauranga's healthcare sector is continuing to shine in the lead-up to Christmas.

Cubro, which provides healthcare equipment solutions and has its head office in Tauriko, is the fifth local healthcare company to champion the Bay of Plenty Times Christmas Appeal.

Supply chain team leader Kerryn Wood said the office's 60 staff members had been bringing in donations for the Tauranga Community Foodbank since the beginning of November.

"There's a team of us that are trying to generate interest and enthusiasm for the cause."

She said they had also been encouraging customers to come in and make a donation if they can.

About four boxes had been filled so far and Cubro would be collecting right up until December 12, when the "Fill the Bus" pick-up will take place.

"We donated some products last year as well and we found that in the last two weeks of our collecting things just really rapidly increased and we ended up supplying a lot which is really awesome," Wood said.

She said this year the company was trying to not just focus on tinned foods, but instead supply other household necessities and hygiene products and go above and beyond the standard food staples.

"Being in the healthcare sector and providing healthcare equipment to people, we care a lot about our community and it's a way for us to contribute and give back to our community and it means that other people in our community might have a better Christmas than they usually would.

"It doesn't take much, just a couple of items from a person means a lot to a family so I think it can be very easy and a little can go a really long way when you're collecting in an organisation like this."

One staff member at Cubro had gone to extra effort, putting together a gift box of baking ingredients and providing a recipe for her family's favourite chocolate cake.

"We thought that was quite sweet," Wood said.

Meanwhile, foodbank manager Nicki Goodwin said it has been another great week of cash and food donations.

So far $14,621 in cash and 4288 food items (valued at $2 each) have been donated.

That brings the Bay of Plenty Times Christmas Appeal total to $23,197 raised.

Keep it up Tauranga, every donation helps.

The Tauranga Community Foodbank Christmas wish list
*Canned tuna/salmon
*Canned vegetables
*Baking supplies - baking powder, icing sugar, cocoa, etc.
*Sauces and dressings
*Pasta or rice
*Jellies and puddings
*Cake mixes
*Personal care items - women's sanitary items, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, razors.
*Baby nappies - larger sizes
*Christmas treats like Christmas puddings, fruit mince pies, and sweet treats are also always welcome