After 11 years as the assistant manager at the Rotorua Salvation Army Family Store, Margaret Stephens wasn't ready to step away completely when it came time to retire.

Ms Stephens now volunteers at the Rotorua Salvation Army Foodbank for about five hours a week.

The Rotorua Daily Post Salvation Army Foodbank Christmas Appeal is under way and Ms Stephens is encouraging locals to get involved and donate.

She began working at the Sallies because she "just wanted to help people" and it was something good she could do for the community that also got her out of the house.

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"It's always important to give help, it's a never-ending story. The demand is always there."

Ms Stephens said the Foodbank needed non-perishable food to help it through Christmas and tide it over until next year.

"People get pleasure out of giving, it's better to give then receive and the demand is so great. We need to build up a stockpile before Christmas."

Make your donations of non-perishable food at the Rotorua Daily Post office: 1143 Hinemoa St or the Salvation Army's Community Ministries, 1188 Amohia St.

You can also donate money at BNZ: The Salvation Army Rotorua, Reference: Foodbank, Acc: 02-0416-0024233-00. If any organisations, schools or individuals are organising a fundraising event, please let us know by emailing news@dailypost.co.nz or contacting reporter Kyra Dawson on (07) 349 7477.