Christmas in the Upper Clutha is a special time of year. The school year comes to an end, summer arrives, visitors fill our town, and many of us look forward to spending time with family and friends.
But for some local families, Christmas can also bring extra pressure. Rising living costs and unexpected expenses can make it harder to put food on the table, let alone enjoy the little extras that make Christmas feel special.
That's why our Christmas Appeal is about more than a single day. Every food donation helps support local families over the festive season while also helping restock our Foodbank for the months ahead.
Help Fill Our Foodbank Shelves
The items below are currently most needed by our Foodbank and will help support local whānau through Christmas and into the New Year.
Toiletries
Shampoo
Soap
Toothpaste
Toothbrushes
Tampons
Sanitary pads
Tinned & Pantry Staples
Canned tomatoes
Pasta sauce
Baked beans
Spaghetti
Red kidney beans
Chickpeas
Coconut milk
Pasta
Rice
Crackers
Biscuits
Christmas Hamper Items
A few festive treats can help make Christmas feel a little more special:
Chocolates
Crisps / potato chips
Christmas cakes
Christmas puddings
Christmas crackers
Fruit mince pies
Juice
Chutney or relish
Every Donation Makes a Difference
Whether it's a few extra items in your trolley at New World, a box of pantry staples, or a larger donation, every contribution helps.
Together, we're helping create breathing space for local families when life throws up the unexpected. More importantly, we're demonstrating what community is all about: people coming together to support one another when it matters most.
How to Donate
Food donations can be dropped off at:
Community Link
34 McDougall Street, Wānaka
You can also support the appeal by making a financial contribution through our website. Financial donations help us purchase the items we need most and respond to individual family circumstances throughout Christmas and into the New Year.
Help every family celebrate a magical Christmas this year.