Can drive for Foodbank tonight

Bay of Plenty Times volunteers will hit Greerton streets tonight, knocking on doors and asking people to give a can or two in support of the Bay of Plenty Times Christmas Appeal in aid of the Tauranga Community Foodbank.

Each year the foodbank supports thousands of cash-strapped families, with demand soaring during the festive season.

The Bay of Plenty Times has once again recognised the huge need for this service, and over coming weeks the newspaper is seeking donations of food items and cash so the foodbank can continue its work over the stressful holiday period.

As well as a kick-start donation of $1000 and bringing cans to the workplace, the newspaper's staff and volunteers will be visiting Western Bay neighbourhoods as part of three planned can drives.

The first is set to take place between 5.30pm and 7.30pm tonight in the Greerton suburb.

The volunteers will be out in pairs and will be wearing grey, identifiable T-shirts.

The Tauranga Fire Service are supporting the Christmas Appeal and a fire truck will accompany the volunteers.

Two more can drives are set to take place in other parts of the district on December 4 and 11.

Each can or grocery item donated is being valued at $1.50.

If you are not home this evening or don't wish to be disturbed, feel free to leave your donation in a plastic bag on your doorstep.

Donations of non-perishable items, including personal care items and baby products, are also always in high demand at the foodbank.

Last year's Bay of Plenty Times campaign saw more than $53,000 raised for the foodbank.