Christmas cheer has come to Dunedin families in need this week, with the distribution of 320 festive food parcels from the Combined Christmas Food Banks.
The annual project, which has been running for more than 15 years, aims to provide families with a contribution to a Christmas meal and treats, as well as toys and other gifts for family members.
Earlier this week, a team of volunteers, led by coordinator Mama Taana bagged up the 320 food parcels and sorted through donated toys ready for distribution from the Catholic Social Services centre in South Dunedin.
‘‘It has been fun coming together to work on this project . It is a nice thing to do in the leadup to Christmas,’’ Ms Taana said.
‘‘Everyone deserves to have a nice meal and some Christmas cheer at this time of the year.’’
The food parcels contain treat foods such as potato chips, jelly, soft drinks, pavlova and canned fruit. Families also receive vouchers to enable them to collect chicken, ice cream, vegetables and fruit from the neighbouring Veggie Boys South Dunedin store.
Ms Taana said the support of the Veggie Boys team had simplified food distribution this year, and would give families the opportunity to choose their own vegetables.
The Combined Christmas Food Banks project involves the Salvation Army, Presbyterian Support Otago Family Works, Catholic Social Service, St Vincent de Paul and Anglican Family Care, which join forces to provide the food and toys for families.
