8 November 2022
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Annual Rotorua Daily Post Christmas Appeal
Enquiry
I'm getting in touch as we launch our annual Christmas Appeal for the Salvation Army on Saturday and we usually get a few comments from the mayor to add in.
- Why do you think it is important to give community organisations such as the Salvation Army Foodbank a hand, especially around the festive season?
- The Salvation Army Foodbank is currently seeing high demand, and has throughout the year, do you think there are any particular issues that are contributing to this?
- Why do you encourage people to give to the appeal if they can?
- Is there anything you would like to add?
Response
from Rotorua Mayor, Tania Tapsell:
“The Salvation Army is an important and generous community group who provide essential support in times of need.
“We’re incredibly lucky to have volunteers like them working within our community. But they can’t do it alone, this year I call on the community to support the Christmas Appeal and help those who may otherwise go without.
“For many of us, Christmas is a time to celebrate and enjoy great feasts with family.
“However, now more than ever we have a growing portion of our community who are under great financial stress. The work of the Salvation Army Foodbank ensures that those families don’t miss out and are able to experience the happiness and joy of a full stomach over Christmas.
“I strongly encourage our generous community of Rotorua to show compassion, and the manaakitanga we are so well known for, by donating non-perishable food to the appeal this Christmas. Big or small, every donation will make a difference.
“As always, Rotorua Lakes Council will be supporting the appeal and I encourage other local businesses to do the same.”