A group of merry volunteers will be on-hand to wrap your Christmas presents for a gold coin donation again this year. Wrapped for Good will be stationed on Helwick Street every day from December 19 to 24 - using sustainable wrapping materials and raising money for local charity Food for Love. 

Founders Sally Gordon, Arna Craig and Jess Eastwood said that after the “huge success” of last year’s gift-wrapping stall, and the community connection it supported, there was “no doubt in our minds about doing it again this year.”

Using recycled wrapping paper, swing tags and natural twine to decorate the community’s gifts, all materials are environmentally friendly, home compostable or reusable.

“It can be quite hard merging sustainable products with a not-for-profit event and high standards,” said Craig, “but we were determined to make it happen. Christmas is all about giving, so to be able to raise money for charity, using completely sustainable products, support local retailers and provide a fun and friendly environment for locals, and an enjoyable environment for our volunteers, really makes the heart sing.”

The organisers were also on the hunt for more volunteers, and Craig emphasised that “wrapping doesn’t have to be perfect, it just needs a little sprinkle of love and it will all work out.”

The word from beneficiary Food for Love founder Bex Sarginson was that although the organisation was “busier than ever preparing and delivering meals to locals in need, she urged people to look out for and nominate neighbours or friends who could use a helping hand this festive season. “All you need to do is nominate, and we will cover it,” she said.

To find out more, or if you would like to volunteer, visit ‘Wrapped for Good’ on Facebook or Instagram or visit foodforlovewanaka.com.

Read edition 1004 of the Wānaka Sun here.