Source: University of Otago
Collections for the Presbyterian Support Foodbank Drive.
Christmas time can be a challenge for many families in need and this year was looking even more challenging with the local COVID-19 response seeing Food Bank shelves bordering on empty.
“We put out boxes at collection stations but people were bringing in big bags full of food. It’s incredible considering the time of year; students have finished and some staff have too. Despite the reduced staff there has been an enormous response. Staff donated cleaning products, sanitary items, toiletries, treats – things which are often considered a luxury for families at Christmas time.”
In response to this the University stepped in with what Client Services Administrator Joanna Livingston describes as an overwhelming positive response.
“This year charities such as Presbyterian Support were unable to host their usual events such as Octacan due to Alert Level 2 restrictions. The University supported by having collection stations around the Dunedin Campus for food drop offs which we could then donate to the Food Bank.”
The initiative took off with other departments setting up collection points and gathering more items than collection stations could hold.
“People have been so generous and thoughtful with their giving. By the time our original close date came around we had more than 1000 items to donate and we’ve needed to set up another collection date for the Food Bank.
“We put out boxes at collection stations but people were bringing in big bags full of food. It’s incredible considering the time of year; students have finished and some staff have too. Despite the reduced staff there has been an enormous response. Staff donated cleaning products, sanitary items, toiletries, treats – things which are often considered a luxury for families at Christmas time.”
Since the close off date last week, another eight boxes have arrived from around the University, prompting one last pick up from the Food Bank. To find out more about donating to the foodbank, visit Presbyterian Support’s website.
