The Gisborne community food bank has received $2000 in donations from Sunbury Autobarn, which will cover the expenses of perishable items for about one month.
The Sunbury store decided to donate to the foodbank following its 30th birthday celebrations on April 8.
Food bank volunteer manager Lynne Margret, said the money raised will go towards perishable items for families in need.
“It’s the perishable items, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, cheese and dairy products, those high protein items that really help families to stay healthy,” Ms Margret said.
“We’re a volunteer organisation [and] every cent that people donate goes to the food bank.”
Ms Margret said the food bank helps feed about 350 to 400 families a month and they have experienced increased demand in the last few months.
“Our numbers have increased and consequently our need for food has increased,” she said.
“Speaking with the other food banks in the area, they are saying their numbers have increased in the last few months as well, especially since Christmas.”
Sunbury Autobarn chief executive Adam Mizzi said they chose to donate to the food bank because it supports families doing it tough.
“[With] interest rate rises and how tough it is, I just wanted to do something special on our special day,” Mr Mizzi said.
“The suppliers sent us gifts for making it to 30 years and whatever we made, as a team, we made the decision to double it [and donate the proceeds to the food bank].”
Ms Margret said people and businesses donating to the food bank helps them help the community.
“We are really thankful to… Adam and his business for [the donation],” she said.
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Zoe Moffatt
