Staff and members of Narre Warren’s Anytime Fitness gym are participating in an annual food drive to support those in need this Christmas.
In its second year, the food drive is held in support of the Salvation Army who collect and distribute the products throughout the local area.
The Anytime Fitness team gathered six large boxes of food last year and has already surpassed their goal for 2021.
Staff member Charissa Spierings said the donation table was overflowing after only one week.
“We wanted to help the community again and we’re super impressed with our members, even those who may be struggling themselves donated,” she said.
“They’ve told their family and friends to donate as well.”
Team member Aaron Perry said it was hard to resist the delicious snacks on display.
“It’s very tempting,” he said.
“With such a great response, we’re hoping to do it again next year as well.”
Although the gym opened in 2019, it has only kept its doors open for about 330 days due to Covid-19 lockdowns.
Club manager Jason Maurice said although there was a limited number of days that the club was open this year, the community spirit was still alive and well.
“It’s been awesome since we opened and November was the best month we’ve had for new members,” Mr Maurice said.
“Everyone is excited to get back into it and hopefully there’s no more lockdowns.”
The club recently won the Community Club of the Year award, competing with Anytime Fitness branches across Victoria.
“Other clubs nominated us and then head office in Sydney picks the winner,” Mr Maurice said.
The club will gather another table full of non-perishable items to be collected by the Salvation Army in one week’s time.
