The Ngongotaha community was full of Christmas spirit last night as collectors visited homes in the township gathering food for the needy.
The Daily Post Christmas appeal for the Salvation Army foodbank held its final can drive of the year in Ngongotaha, helped by the Ngongotaha Volunteer Fire Brigade and a team of keen collectors.
Residents were generous with non-perishable food items, none more so than Elijah Brown.
Mr Brown said there was always someone worse off and gave what he could to the foodbank appeal.
"I just gave anything I could. These are tough times for everyone. I just hope it all works out, if you give, then one day you could get it all back and it's nice to help others," he said.
MP Todd McClay said the people of Ngongotaha were a generous bunch.
"The great thing about Ngongotaha people is they are certainly not shy," he said.
His son Sam said he volunteered to help his father collect for a good cause.
"It's a nice thing to do for the community."
While fire trucks drove up streets with sirens sounding, residents were ready and waiting for collectors to swing past with bags at the ready.
Fire officer Paul Osborne said staff were happy to help out.
"This is the second one we have done this year, we helped out the boys from Rotorua with the Springfield can drive," he said. "Getting out to help the community is what we are here for."
Donations to The Daily Post Christmas Appeal for the Salvation Army foodbank can be made at our Hinemoa St office between 8am and 5pm on weekdays. People can donate money or non-perishable food. Food donations can also be made at the Salvation Army's Community Ministries at Community House on Haupapa St. Donations will be taken until 4pm Friday.