NZDF personnel Lieutenant Christian Anderson, Air Craftsman Kylie Godfrey, and Petty Officer Writer Lisa Chui help to Pack the Bus
7 December 2007
Teddy bears, books, toys, Christmas cakes, tinned fruit and chocolate biscuits were among the many donations given this week by the New Zealand Defence Force and Ministry of Defence to Wellington City Mission’s annual Pack the Bus Christmas appeal.
NZDF Business Programmes Manager Deborah Mulliss said, “In 2006 we decided that a joint NZDF and MoD effort would mean that more people would be involved and we have had a combined campaign again this year. Support for the appeal has been great with some individuals being especially generous.”
Over the past two weeks a decorated Stagecoach bus has traveled around Wellington picking up donated foodstuffs, books and children’s toys.
“I am on a Mission to make sure that all disadvantaged families and children in the Greater Wellington area, have time free from want and fear and to make sure that Christmas Day is a day of joy, happiness and one to remember” said Father Des Britten, Wellington City Missioner.
“Because of The Breeze and MoreFM ‘Pack the Bus’ campaign, my Mission is much closer to achieving that goal. Many other food banks and social service providers, as well as our own clients, will benefit from the wonderful generosity of the New Zealand Defence Force and all Wellingtonians in helping those struggling to cope this Christmas.”
ENDS
For further information please contact Ally Clelland, Defence Public Relations 04 496 0273 or 021 569 130.