Operation Christmas Hamper is one of the most important local initiatives we support each year. This year, 180 food hampers were delivered to families in need across our community.
Campaign summary
During November and December, we donated $10 from every private tow to Operation Christmas Hamper. With 98 private tow jobs completed, the community total reached $980. Waipa Towing matched it and rounded up the final donation to $2,000.
What the hampers included
Each hamper included Christmas treats, essential pantry staples, and ingredients for a traditional roast dinner so families could share a proper Christmas meal together. Every nominated family had children, and each child also received a Christmas gift. This year, we supported several large families to make sure no one was left out.
Local focus
The support provided through Operation Christmas Hamper is focused entirely on our local area, covering Parawera, Pirongia, Te Awamutu, and Kihikihi.
How families are nominated
Families are nominated by trusted community organisations, including:
- Churches
- Kindergartens and daycares
- Women's Refuge
- Police
- Community Safety organisations
- Corrections
- Kainga Ora (KA)
Families may be nominated for many reasons, including illness affecting a parent or child, sudden hardship, or challenging circumstances during the Christmas period.
How the donations were raised
Operation Christmas Hamper relies heavily on community generosity to make this support possible. This year, donations were raised through local car washes, sausage sizzles, and bacon and egg rolls sold at the Pirongia Fair, alongside generous individual and business contributions.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who donated, volunteered, or supported this initiative. Your generosity made a real difference for local families at a time when it mattered most.