Rotorua Personalities Pitch in Behind Foodbank
An inaugural charity event in Rotorua has contributed much-needed food and cash donations to the local Salvation Army foodbank.
‘Kick for a Cause Rotorua’ brought together 44 local personalities, divided into four teams, for an afternoon of social football. The list of players included local musicians, Miss Rotorua 2022 and 2021, journalists, and staff from government, the police, council, schools, businesses and non-government organisations.
Several hundred people attended the family-friendly event on 19 March at the Ngongotahā Football Club, just north of Rotorua.
According to a report in the Rotorua Daily Post, both matches ended in draws, which led to a penalty shoot-out.
The charity event, which was organised by local people, collected some 269 cans and food items along with more than $2300 in donations.
Rotorua Salvation Army Corps Officer, Captain Hana Seddon said a group of local people made contact to say they wanted to support the Army’s work in the Rotorua area.
‘What was special for us is that we are often head down doing the work, so for members of the local community to step forward to organise the event was such an incredible blessing,’ said Hana.
‘There was a real diversity of people who took part, including out of town supporters, and the event itself had a lovely sports day atmosphere.
‘The event resulted in a significant donation to our foodbank and also helped to raise The Salvation Army’s profile, with people having a better understanding of what we do.’
With the rising cost of living, demand for The Salvation Army’s foodbank in Rotorua doubled in January and February 2023 compared with the same time last year.
Photo supplied by: Michelle Cutelli Photography
