Kiwifruit growers across the eastern and western Bay of Plenty are digging deep to help support local food banks.

'There is unprecedented demand for food bank services,” says NZ Kiwifruit Growers senior policy analyst Sarah Cameron.

'Due to the economic impact of COVID-19, people that may not have previously needed help with feeding themselves or their family are finding themselves in unfamiliar territory.

'They may have lost their job, had their hours reduced or in a family situation reduced to one income or no income. With the wage subsidy ending, our communities will see tougher times.”

Sarah is organising a food bank appeal across the kiwifruit industry asking growers to dig deep and help give what they can to those in need.

The appeal is running from August 28 to September 11, with drop off points at Mount Maunganui, Katikati, Te Puke, Opotiki and Whakatane.

'Personal care items, baking supplies, canned food and nappies are the most sought after items.”

Non-perishable food can be dropped off at the NZKGI office at 25 Miro St, Mt Maunganui; Hume Pak n Cool, 4 Prospect Dr, Katikati; and Ceramico Tiles, 14 Oxford St, Te Puke.

'NZKGI is a socially responsible organisation and we are looking to do our bit to help the communities we live in by organising this food bank appeal,” says Sarah.

For more information contact NZKGI Senior Policy Analyst Sarah Cameron on: sarah.cameron@nzkgi.org.nz