It’s Mission Possible – Sure as Hellers

The Christchurch City Mission is expecting more than 1,000 people at this year’s Christmas Day lunch.

It’s a major increase on the 750 Cantabrians who attended the lunch last year, held annually at the Christchurch East Primary School. City Missioner Matthew Mark says the expected higher numbers are based on the more than 40% increase in demand from the foodbank this year, which provides food support to more than 150 people daily.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of the more than 250 people choosing to help us, which reflects the amazing spirit in our community.

“When there are lines outside our doors as people wait for the foodbank to open, there’s no denying that the demand for services like the City Mission is just growing. With numbers like this, we just couldn’t face this alone, it’s thanks to our Christmas Day Lunch partners Hellers, Harcourts and the Scenic Hotel Group, that we are able to ensure everyone who turns up has a true Christmas Lunch.”

The main supporter of the lunch is North Canterbury based Hellers, which has supplied more than 400 kilograms of 1 kilogram hams, as well as financial support and volunteers.

“Our staff is helping with set up and doing everything from food preparation to setting up the marquee and packing it down. For us it’s a chance to give something back to the community,” says Hellers CEO John McWhirter.

“We have a strong community based ethos, so our ongoing support of the Christchurch and other city missions and our links with other charities just make good business sense.”
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