Editorial: Food appeal shows we care

Reece and Vanita Spee of Spee Training are supporting the Bay of Plenty Times Foodbank Appeal

The elderly woman was in the middle of her lounge gripping her walker when I told her who I was and what I was after.

I could see through the security door as she slowly turned herself around and disappeared into the kitchen of her unit before emerging a few moments later with a can sitting in the middle of the tray of her walker.

She made her way to the door, opened it, picked up the can and dropped it into my bag.

It was a touching moment. Here is a woman who clearly is finding it difficult to move around but still managed the effort of helping others by donating to the Bay of Plenty Times annual foodbank appeal.

I thanked her profusely and wished her a great Christmas, walking away with a warm feeling in my heart.

There were plenty of others on 17th Ave who gave generously when we came calling in Tauranga South on Monday night.

Teams from the Bay of Plenty Times and Foodbank carried out the third and final can drive of this year's charity appeal, raising food and money for the Tauranga Community Foodbank.

I was continually amazed with the generosity and friendliness of people on 17th Ave.

I had couples praising us for the good work we were doing, and one couple who had their food donation all ready in a plastic bag by the door.

Another couple spent a few minutes rummaging through their kitchen looking for as many items as they could to donate.

This is partly what Christmas is about - not only celebrating the festive season with family and friends but also doing something to help people less fortunate.

The appeal officially ends on Friday next week so there is still time to donate if you haven't already.

Every little bit helps and giving does feel good, especially at this time of year.

I eventually arrived at home on Monday well after 8pm, satisfied I had again done my bit for the campaign.

To everyone who has donated so far, thank you so much for your help and for making a difference to families who can't afford to put food on their table.