Showing love and support for the community is one reason the Rotorua Baptist Church is getting behind the Rotorua Daily Post Salvation Army Christmas Appeal.
Baptist Church pastor Paul Forster said this year was the first time the church had donated to the appeal, which aimed to stock the organisation's foodbank.
He said he liked the systems the Sallies had in place to ensure the support got where it was needed and the wraparound services it offered.
Mr Forster said his church could give to the appeal in great confidence because of these things.
"I just think there's a lot of need in the community. We love our community and want to show our love and support to them, especially at Christmas time."
He said the Rotorua Baptist Church had been collecting items for the appeal during November.
Mr Forster encouraged others in the community to get behind the food drive and to give with confidence.
"We really value Ralph and Kylie Overbye and their team at the Salvation Army Community Ministries for the work they are doing. We think they are awesome."
Mr Forster's wife, Christine, said the Baptist Church had really got behind the appeal.
"My feeling is that they've really wanted to give, it's great."