Rotorua trust gives $10,000 to Salvation Army Christmas hampers

Tony Gill (left) and Jo-Anne La Grouw. Photo/Stephen Parker

Sitting down to a special meal and having something to unwrap is part of what makes Christmas special – and now Rotorua Trust is stepping in to make sure families don't miss out.

The trust is giving $15,000 to various Christmas appeals, including $10,000 towards helping the Rotorua Police and Salvation Army provide Aroha Hampers to families in need.

This year the Aroha Hampers are counted towards the Rotorua Daily Post Christmas Appeal.

Trustee JoAnne La Grouw said the hampers were about providing those "added extras" that many families took for granted.

Included in the hampers are items such as a chicken for the family to roast, gravy mix, fresh vegetables and a sponge cake for a special Christmas meal.

La Grouw said presents were also included for children to give them something to unwrap on the day.

"It's about making Christmas Day festive. These families are recommended to the organisers and when the hampers are delivered it's a complete surprise."

Constable Marc van Krieken, who is behind the campaign, said last year they delivered hampers to about 55 families and this year they would give more than 200 hampers away.

Van Krieken said the money was a tremendous boost to the campaign and allowed the groups to buy items that wouldn't otherwise be included.

"This will allow us to bring some proper cheer rather than just provide the necessities. The money is going to a good place and will make a significant difference for a number of Rotorua families.

"Because of the donation from the trust, we will be able to help more families than we did last year."

Rotorua Trust chairman Stewart Edward said the other $5000 would be divided between the St John's Presbyterian Church and St Vincent de Paul Christmas appeals.

Edward said the Rotorua Trust's kaupapa was about making a better Rotorua for all, and the $15,000 donation would go some way to improving Christmas for those in need.

"We want to ensure everyone in Rotorua is able to enjoy a special Christmas meal with their family. There are people in our community who are working tirelessly to ensure Rotorua families aren't missing out on Christmas meals, and we're proud to be able to support the work they are doing."