Token voting will help Matamata service groups

Customers at Z Matamata have the chance to show their support for one of four groups making a difference in the town.

Victim Support Matamata Piako, the Lions of Matamata Charitable Trust, the St John Ambulance service and the Matamata Community Garden have been selected for the Z Good in the Hood programme.

Over the next few weeks, customers will be given an orange token and asked to put it in the box that represents the group they would most like to support.

The four groups will receive a share of $4000, with the amount given to each group depending on how many votes they have.

Last year, the money was split between the Matamata Volunteer Fire Brigade, St John, Pohlen Hospital and the Community Health Shuttle.

Customers can also vote at z.co.nz/ GoodintheHood as the groups will receive an extra $500 if they are one of the 10 groups nationwide who receive the most votes in Z’s online Token Hunt.

Z general manager of retail, Mark Forsyth, said he was impressed with the high calibre of applicants to the programme this year.

‘‘We were overwhelmed by the passion and commitment demonstrated by many of these groups and the amazing work they’re doing in local neighbourhoods,’’ he said.

‘‘Their unwavering focus on helping people despite limited funding being available in these tough economic times is inspiring.’’