Spuds for ... Tonga
A Waimate potato farmer hopes a pallet of spuds will help raise funds for the victims of Cyclone Gita.
Geoff Bruce donated 80 10 kilogram bags of potatoes to The Church of Tonga, Timaru, on Saturday for the church to on-sell.
The money raised will be used to buy household items to be sent to Tonga, church member Anna Leger said.
‘‘The generosity blowing,’’ Leger said.
‘‘The goal is for the supplies we buy to go to people who need it the most.’’
Leger said those hardest-hit by the cyclone were in need of the basic daily supplies, such as toilet paper and bottled water, which most people take for granted.
Bruce said he decided to make the donation after learning about the fundraising efforts of the church.
‘‘It was a bit of sympathy towards them and what they’re going through.
‘‘We saw it as an easy way to give back to them.’’
Bruce said the retail value of the bags was about $10 each.
‘‘They should be able to make a good amount of money out of them,’’ he said.
The church had also been donated two 40-foot shipping containers by an anonymous donor, which were expected to arrive in the next few days. They would be filled then sent to the island nation on June 11. Until then, the church is asking for donations of goods.
It will also hold a fundraiser event on May 26, where people can drop off items.
Items sought to help fill the containers include water bottles, canned food, washing powders and toiletries.
The fundraiser, being held at the Scout Hall, 67a Otipua Rd, Timaru, will begin at 9am, and will include a cake stall and sausage sizzle.
Anyone wanting more information is asked to contact church member Anna Leger on 027 406 2010. is mind