Despite the generosity of the general public and local businesses to build up essential supplies and resources, prior to Christmas, Foodbanks across the Eastern Bay now face increased pressures to restock the shelves, as 'back to school' expenses hit hard on families already struggling to meet the costs of bills, deferred before Christmas, in order to purchase gifts for their children. 

Thanks to the Vital Impact Fund, The Eastern Bay Community Foundation has been able to step in with a grant of funds to assist with the restocking, in Kawerau at the House of Hope; Kawerau Foodbank, in Opotiki at Whakaatu Whanaunga's Community Pataka/ Foodbank and in Whakatane via the Salvation Army, who operate the Whakatane Foodbank for the community.

Trustee and Grants and Allocations Chair; Jacqui Hughes ONZM acknowledges the work undertaken by volunteers to keep our most vulnerable fed, " the funds we have been able to share, will certainly be put to good use within the three foodbanks, thanks to the dedicated volunteers who keep these facilities operational". 

Foodbanks in the region will willingly accept fresh garden produce and excess fruit to share with their clients. 

Waste Not-Want Not, a food rescue service also makes food that has been collected from supermarkets, fresh food outlets, cafes and restaurants available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4pm at Pou Whakaaro, opposite Mitre 10 in Whakatane.