Fundraiser makes more than $3,660
They may be known as “forbidden fruit”, but apples donated by the Upper Clutha community have been a godsend to those in need. Using the donated apples, eight Food for Love volunteers prepared 366 containers for its second fruit-crumble fundraiser last week.
Thanks to the local charity and those who donated apples, Upper Clutha ate its way to raising more than $3660. Food for Love was founded in 2016, providing free home-cooked meals to people in need through the Upper Clutha region.
Founder Bex Sarginson said the fundraising helps the organisation to continue giving back to the community.
“There are people going through hard times in the Upper Clutha area so it’s really great being able to help those people,” Ms Sarginson said.
The original aim was to make 150 dishes, but the amount of donated fruit processed by volunteers meant that total more than doubled. Before the event, 167 crumbles had been pre-sold, and a further 199 sold on the day.
Ms Sarginson said it was a good feeling, especially as all the funds go back into the charity to help provide more meals.
Recipients were generally going through a challenging time, such as illness, bereavement, relationship or financial difficulties, and are nominated by someone in the community.
During the first fundraiser in April, 440 baked desserts were made, selling out as well. After the success of both fundraisers, Food for Love is considering another batch due to community demand.