THE weather couldn’t dampen the spirits of the Tomaree Interagency COVID-19 Response Team (TICRT) volunteers on Saturday, 13 June in Nelson Bay who held a community food drive to support those in need in Port Stephens.

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If anything the drizzle only bolstered the resolve of the TICRT to dig in at the All Saints Anglican Church car park and their efforts were rewarded with the residents of the region showing up in force to donate their non-perishable food goods.

Dorothy Thom, spokesperson for the TICRT said that it was amazing to see the people of the region give so much for those that are doing it tough during the CoronaVirus pandemic.

“The response from the community has been overwhelming for which we are all very grateful,” said Mrs Thom.

“Both donors and service organisations expressed delight with the day, the food is being divided up amongst all the involved agencies this Saturday (20 June).

“A few cash donations were received on the day and these were given to Guys Choice Cuts Butchery who have in return given vouchers which will be given to those in need to supplement the non-perishable food.

“It is great to support local business.”

Port Stephens Mayor, Ryan Palmer popped in to show his support for the food drive and said it was a grand effort by the volunteers and community.

“Very humbling to be amongst such wonderful community volunteers involved with the food drive organised by the Tomaree Interagency,” said Mr Palmer.

“It was great to see a steady stream of people donating food and goods to local charities, a huge congratulations to all involved!”

For those who were unavailable to donate at the food drive and would still like to do so, there are donation bins outside Woolworths Nelson Bay, IGA Shoal Bay and IGA Salamander Bay.

Give when you can, and give often.

By Mitch LEES