Easter drive shows public generosity

The Invercargill Spirit Army thought it would collect enough Easter treats for 18 families - but the generosity of the Southland public doubled that.

The army delivered Easter hampers to nearly 40 families on Thursday, having put out the call for donations several weeks ago.

Spirit Army leader Gerry Forde said the drop-off point at retailer McKnight & Brown was swamped with donations.

‘‘Bernie Brown was absolutely loving it,’’ Forde said.

‘‘He was chuffed, it was great to have so much coming in.’’

Other shoppers noticed the donations and wanted to donate too, Forde said.

It was hard to estimate how much was donated, he said. One person gave 100 eggs.

Others had donated money, which they used to buy hot cross buns.

‘‘We’re just overwhelmed by it. It just rolled in steadily all week.

‘‘It shows there’s a real generous streak out there in Southland ... we want to make sure we channel it to people in Southland and make a difference in their lives.’’

The extra families were those the army were already in contact with.

The group would be working with all families continuously, in a permanent relationship, Forde said.

It meant a weekly visit from a Spirit Army member, he said.

‘‘That’s forever ... we’re not a one-off, we’re into building permanent relationships and partnerships.

‘‘We think this is the way to go.’’

Donations were mostly quality chocolate and food items, and not budget grocery brands, he said.

The quality donations showed a sign of respect to the families, he said.

‘‘That’s operate.’’

Forde said the idea was closely linked with the resurrection and a lift from ‘‘tough times’’.

‘‘Then they can focus on having a relaxed day with their families, without the stress.’’

The army had recruited an extra five volunteers in the past weeks after extra publicity.

The Easter drive was army’s first public appeal.

About twelve volunteers delivered the boxes of chocolate, Easter eggs and groceries to families on Thursday evening. ‘‘It’s been a major job to organise.’’ essential to how we the

PHOTO: ROBYN EDIE/FAIRFAX NZ 634039213 Invercargill Spirit Army members Gerry Forde and Bill McRandle pack Easter eggs and groceries donated by the public.