Resene's campaign collects 1127 cans for Rotorua foodbank

The Salvation Army Rotorua foodbank has been boosted by 1127 cans thanks to the Resene Hunger for Colour campaign.

Back for its fourth year, the campaign was boosted by rock painting groups, who joined others in swapping more than 35,000 cans of food for test pots of Resene paint during February.

Resene Rotorua ColorShop manager Mareikura Winiata said staff were thrilled by the response of their customers.

'We're really impressed by how many generous people who have supported us this year.

"We're very proud of being part of this campaign, working with people in Rotorua to make a difference for struggling people here and adding colour to customers' lives."

In four years the campaign has collected more than 150,000 cans of food to support struggling New Zealanders.

Resene Rotorua ColorShop manager Mareikura Winiata (front) with Kylie Overbye, from the Salvation Army. Photo / Ben Fraser

"Thank you to all those who contributed and those who gave just to give, that truly shows a generous spirit and the true nature of giving," Winiata said.

She gave a special shout-out to RotoRocks, which encourages families to paint rocks, hide them around their town for other families to find and share their discoveries, and backed the campaign.

The cans will give a timely boost to Salvation Army foodbanks, restocking shelves after a busy holiday and back-to-school period and helping prepare for winter when many families struggle.

Salvation Army Rotorua lieutenant Kylie Overbye said it was very grateful for Resene and its Hunger for Colour campaign, as food support for the community remains a constant need.

"Once again Rotorua have taken this wonderful opportunity to exchange cans for paint in their commitment to help those in the community who need it most.

"As people's living circumstances change, their financial needs can be affected too, and often people cut back on groceries because it's one aspect of their finances that can flex.

"With winter on its way it's great to keep the foodbank well stocked, because we just never quite know how many families will be adversely affected by winter living costs, and we don't want anyone to miss out on something they essentially need."