The Whakatāne community has once again rallied around with New World customers donating a ute load of food during Awakeri Scout Groups’ Annual Food Drive.

“Once again we are reminded what a lovely community we live in” says organiser Amy O’Hagan.

Along with a generous selection of non-perishable items, the $350 cash donations were used to purchase mince and potatoes at the suggestion of the foodbank.

“The Salvation Army were really shocked (again) by the amount of food, laying it out on the table ready for food parcel packing tomorrow,” she said.

“We would like to extend a warm thank you to New World and their staff for hosting us and to the generous members of the public who were able to donate. We know times are tough right now.”