Christmas Appeal: Hotel gives generously

Rotorua's Copthorne Hotel has donated $300 worth of fresh produce and more than 50 items of food to The Daily Post Christmas Appeal for the Salvation Army foodbank.

The hotel, formerly known as Kingsgate in Fenton St, made the donation yesterday so the produce could be used for the Christmas hampers, which will be given out to 120 struggling families on Monday.

Receptionist Angela Smith-Bigwood organised the collection because she said she valued the work the Salvation Army does in the Rotorua community.

"I was always brought up to value Christmas and to give to those in need as it is a time for sharing what little you may have with those around you."

Staff as well as their family members and friends donated 53 items of food while the hotel donated 60kg of potatoes, 15kg of kumara, 20kg of carrots, 20kg of onions and 2kg of lollies.

Meanwhile, staff at Rotorua First National yesterday donated $52 to the appeal while staff from BDO Rotorua contributed $75.

The Daily Post will announce how much was raised overall during this year's appeal in Monday's edition.