christmasfeature
30 Mahurangimatters December 1, 2016
Matakantata choir singing for a cause
Roger Mackay holds a Christmas food box filled by: (from left) Daphne Cocker, Carol Cable, Ron Buckton, Jenny Trotter, Jean Moss and Davina Monds.
Christmas food box appeals to community Get a box and some friends together and fill it with Christmas goodies for needy families – that’s this year’s appeal from the Warkworth Christian Foodlink. Manager Roger MacKay says the initiative aims to help volunteers streamline the sorting process ready for distribution. “Our volunteers spend countless hours arranging donated food into over 150 Christmas boxes,” Roger says. “We want to give ownership back to the
community so that they can create a Christmas hamper that’s ready to distribute to the needy.” Roger has developed a preferred foods list, which includes various options for tinned and dried goods, condiments, drinks, Christmas specialities and toiletries. “Christmas is a time for celebration and giving. “Throw a street party and bring a few things to fill a box, or get your colleagues together and donate at
work,” Roger says. Christmas boxes can be any size-five cartons. They are also available at the Presbyterian Church or Mahurangi Matters offices in Warkworth. Groups will need to register their intended donations be emailing admin@mahu.org.nz. Packed Christmas boxes should be returned to the Presbyterian Church, 5 Pulham Road, Warkworth from Friday December 16.
The Matakantata choir will be hitting the high notes on Sunday December 4, to raise funds for Warkworth Christian Foodlink. The opening Dreaming of Christmas concert will include choral music and traditional carols at the Mahurangi Presbyterian Church from 2.30pm. A second concert will be held at the Matakana Hall on Friday December 16 at 7.30pm. The Presbyterian Church is the heart of the Foodlink distribution initiative, which delivers food parcels from several local church groups to needy families across Mahurangi. Manager Roger McKay says the fundraiser is much appreciated, as more food distribution is needed. “We spend between $8000 and $10,000 over the Christmas period. Last year we delivered Christmas boxes to over 150 families,” Roger says. The choir will be accompanied by Fiona Longuet-Higgins on piano, Lyn Dashper on violin, Mark Dashper on cello and Vaughan Morgan on guitar. The eclectic programme includes Vivaldi, and California Dreamin’ by The Mamas & The Papas. There will also be traditional carols for the audience to sing along to. Tickets $15, Children, gold coin donation.
Visit Morris & James on Sunday 11th December 2016 for complimentary bubbly, mince pies & refreshments. Competitions & prizes. Kid’s decorate their own tile 11am - 3pm. Free gift for purchases over $200. One day only! Open 9am - 5pm 7 days.