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 towards various Christmas appeals, including $10,000 towards helping the Rotorua Police and Salvation Army to provide Aroha Hampers to make the day a bit more memorable for families in need.
Trustee JoAnne La Grouw says the hampers are about providing those “added extras” that many families take 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.
Mrs La Grouw says presents are 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 we do the deliveries it’s a complete surprise.”
Constable Marc van Krieken, who is behind the campaign, says last year they delivered hampers to about 55 families and this year they would give more than 200 hampers away.
Mr van Krieken says the money is a tremendous boost to the campaign and allows 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 says the other $5000 will be divided between the St John’s Presbyterian Church and St Vincent de Paul Christmas appeals.
Mr Edward says the Rotorua Trust’s kaupapa is about making a better Rotorua for all, and the $15,000 donation will 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.