Six cartons filled with food items donated at Council’s Family Movie Night on Saturday were delivered to the Salvation Army’s Ashburton foodbank today, where volunteers were preparing 70 Christmas hampers for families in need.

The 277 food items included cans of food, pasta and other non-perishable goods, and $55.50 also given on the night.

People who came along to the free screening of Home Alone at the Ashburton Domain were asked to bring an item for the foodbank, and many of the 800 who came along did that.

Catherine Harris, of the Salvation Army’s Community Services, said the Christmas hampers contained items for breakfast, lunch and tea on Christmas Day and included special items like meringues or sweets. All the food had been donated by local people, businesses and organisations.

“Ashburton is amazing in that regard, our community is quite generous. We want those who get our Christmas hampers to have at least one special meal.”

She said some families needed extra help at this time of the year because they suddenly had extras in their household, and covid was still taking a toll on other households.

People can get in touch with the Salvation Army on their own behalf if they need help, or be referred by others.

When people come in to collect their hamper, they are also invited to choose an item from gifts that have been donated.

The family movie night was part of Council’s Nights of Lights Christmas festival, proudly supported this year by Hokonui.

The festival was organised by Council and Chief Executive Hamish Riach said it was great to be able to support the foodbank at its busiest time of the year.

“Alongside Hokonui, we’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who brought a can to the movie, and hope they all have a happy festive season.”