21 Dec 2009

City Mission struggling to feed hundreds expected

10:59 am on 21 December 2009

The Christchurch City Mission says the recession has had an impact on its Christmas lunch donations, and many more contributions are needed if it's to feed the 650 people expected on Friday.

The City Missioner, Michael Gorman, says another 35 legs of lamb are required, along with pavlovas and small bottles of soft drink.

He says donations were slower than normal last Christmas, as the economic downturn began, but the situation wasn't nearly as dire as it is this year.

Meanwhile, the Auckland City Mission hopes its current appeal will yield enough funds to cover its Christmas dinner bill, but it needs more food parcel donations to meet dramatically growing demand.