Foodbank supplies boosted by Aquatic Centre

A ‘Spa for a Can’ promotion at Rotorua Aquatic Centre has resulted in the donation of more than 500 food items to local foodbanks today [16 October].

St John’s Church and Salvation Army foodbanks were the recipients of the Rotorua Lakes Council swimming facility’s school holiday promotion, which encouraged customers to donate a can or non-perishable food item in exchange for a free spa upgrade.

Aquatic Centre manager David Pearce said the team was delighted to be able to support organisations that assist those in need in the community.

“The idea came from staff to attract more customers during the school holidays. They suggested that by removing the financial barrier to use our spa pools, we could also make a real contribution to the city’s foodbanks. We received a fantastic response and are grateful for everyone’s generosity.”

St John’s Church community worker, Anna White, said it was a pleasant surprise for the church to receive the donation of food.

“We see about 20 to 30 individuals and families per week who need food, so we’re very grateful for the community response to this great initiative.”

Salvation Army Community Ministries manager, Shelly Fisher, was also touched by the gesture.

“It’s really inspirational to see businesses getting behind our cause and the community response to it is heart-warming.”

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