Christmas Appeal: Scion staff get behind city foodbank

Scion's Stefania Pizzirani is organising the institute's raffle for the Salvation Army foodbank. Photo / Stephen Parker

A local employer is getting on board the Rotorua Daily Post Christmas Appeal, pledging to improve on its efforts from previous years.

Crown research institute Scion launches its annual raffle this Friday with all proceeds going to the Salvation Army foodbank.

It has been just over two weeks since the Rotorua Daily Post launched its appeal but already locals and businesses are signing on to help out.

Last year, Scion staff collected 1145 items worth more than $2000 for the Salvation Army as part of the appeal.

Scion's Stefania Pizzirani is organising the raffle again this year. She said Scion staff would be trying to "up the ante" from last year's efforts.

"We are hoping to gather 1500 items, if not more. This will be my fourth year organising the raffle and we are showing no signs of slowing down.

"I've volunteered at the foodbank before and have seen what an amazing job those volunteers do with so little. I've also seen how depleted their stock gets throughout the year, so we want to do what we can to help."

The Scion raffle is running from December 4 to 18.

"We've got a bunch of prizes up for grabs, donated by generous people and businesses," Ms Pizzirani said.

"I think most people in Rotorua recognise there is a need for foodbanks out there and are happy to band together to make a difference.

"The Salvation Army really appreciates the efforts of everyone who makes donations during this foodbank appeal and the Scion staff are more than happy to help."

Rotorua Salvation Army commanding officer Major Bill Millar said he was thrilled to see the generosity of Rotorua businesses and people.

"It is very challenging times for people so it is wonderful to have places like Scion come on board with the appeal."

Mr Millar said the foodbank was helping an increasing number of working families.

"It's not just the unemployed coming to us for help, it's people working on a low income who cannot make ends meet. The Salvation Army is both delighted and humbled to be able to provide a vehicle for these generous, kind-hearted people to give to the less fortunate."