Foodbank drive shares the Christmas love

A regional Foodbank drive that was struggling to collect enough donations to feed northern families this Christmas has received a helping hand from some generous Karratha businesses.

Foodbank Geraldton, the organisation’s northern WA branch, was struggling to meet demand for its Festive Food Appeal until radio station Spirit Radio pitched in, organising a week-long special broadcast from local businesses to encourage people to donate food.

Afternoon presenter Angie Ayers has been the main driver behind the Spirit Radio team’s campaign.

“(Spirit Radio staff) were talking in the office about Christmas coming and were looking to do something charity-focused to get in the spirit of Christmas, ” she said.

“Eating until you burst is something we do on Christmas, but not everyone can afford that. There are going to be a lot of people doing it tough.

“If we can do anything to help give kids some Christmas cheer, we’re going to do it.”

Ms Ayers said she had been overwhelmed with how generously Karratha residents had responded.

“It has been unreal, ” she said. “People are coming in with trolleys of food — not just one or two items, but bags of stuff. It was really heartwarming.”

Foodbank Geraldton manager Pat Hodge said Karratha’s response had been “amazing” and the organisation was grateful.

“This is the worst year I have seen (for donations), probably because there are so many people unemployed, ” she said.

“Without the support of the Karratha people and the radio station and the transport company (JSS Logistics), we would not be able to meet the demand.

“What an amazing effort when everyone’s going through hard times at the moment.”

To donate, contact Foodbank Geraldton on 9964 8011.