Gisborne Foodbank is needing more donations as the need for help rises in the community.
Operations manager Lynne Margret said pantry items are preferred, but the foodbank will accept all kinds of donations.
“We like to accept lots of pantry donations, things like baked beans, soups, UHT milk, anything shelf stable,” she said.
“Also cleaning products and toiletries, they’re really important for people who are struggling because some of those items are fairly expensive to buy.
“Those type of things take a big load off and helps us as it means we don’t have to purchase as much ourselves.”
Canned goods like soups, spaghetti and other shelf staple items can be dropped off at a number of points across Gisborne, including Coles, Foodworks, the Gisborne Library and other small businesses – Ms Marget said just to just “look out for their sign”.
Fresh fruits and vegetables, alongside meat and dairy products can also be donated by heading into the foodbank during opening hours.
“We have some very generous people in our community, its wonderful,” she said.
As we head into colder months, Ms Margret said donations are needed more.
“We have seen an increase in our client numbers… each year it seems to be more and more people,” she said.
“I have discussions with all our local food banks and they’re seeing the same thing happen in their areas.”
An updated list of items the Gisborne Foodbank is needing can be found weekly on its Facebook page.
If you’d like to donate or need assistance from the Gisborne Foodbank, you can find it at the Gisborne Uniting Church, with entry at the rear of the church via Heritage Way.
It is open Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am to 3pm and by appointment.
