"It's about doing something for the poor people and Jesus and all that kind of stuff," 9-year-old volunteer Thomas Somerfield said, as he collected food last night for the Dunedin Community Can and Christmas Treats Drive.
The generosity of Dunedin residents had again ensured Christmas cheer for many families who would otherwise have missed out, co-ordinator Jane Orbell, of the Salvation Army, said.
"It's a wonderful thing. There's been a lot of disasters happening this year and people are still happy to dip into their pockets. Dunedin people are very generous and always come to the party."
Fire engines, police cars, Civil Defence and Red Cross trucks and army Unimogs took to the suburbs between 6pm and 9pm, with sirens wailing, for the annual foodbank collection.
The donations were later sorted out at a secret central collection point and divided between the Salvation Army, Presbyterian Support, Anglican Family Care and St Vincent de Paul foodbanks.
Nearly 1000 parcels were expected to be distributed to individuals and families referred from any one of 29 welfare agencies.
Mosgiel, Taieri and Green Island residents will have their chance to contribute to the Mosgiel Community Foodbank next Monday night.
More than 100 volunteers from emergency-service organisations, service clubs, local businesses, churches and youth groups would collect donations from 6pm to 9pm in Mosgiel, Wingatui, Allanton, East Taieri, Green Island "and all parts in between", foodbank co-ordinator Chris Jones said yesterday.
Some of the food would be distributed in about 90 Christmas hampers, while the remainder would be used to stock the foodbank through the year, she said.
About 700 food parcels were handed out annually.
Mrs Jones said she was always grateful for the huge response from Mosgiel Taieri residents.
"It is a real buzz of a night. Everyone comes together for the good of our community."
