The Rotorua Salvation Army says the response to the Christmas appeal so far has been encouraging and full of invaluable generosity.

Rotorua Salvation Army corps officer Ralph Overbye said about 700 food items had been donated as part of the Rotorua Daily Post Christmas Appeal 2016.

He said they put a figure of $2 as an average value, which meant these items were worth about $1400. The Sallies had also received $950 in cash donations.

"It's great to see the community support us, to help bring hope to life."

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Christmas could be a tough time for families, adding extra stress and financial pressure on top of their everyday concerns, Mr Overbye said.

He said the Salvation Army relied on donations so they could help families to celebrate Christmas safely, as well as to provide the services that they did all year-round.

"The generosity of individuals, businesses, other churches, government departments and other social service agencies has been, and will continue to be, invaluable as we seek to care for people and transform lives."

Mr Overbye said donations of any non-perishable food items such as dried pasta, cereal, noodles, rice, biscuits, crackers, spreads and canned food were appreciated.

However, if cans are old and rusty, they cannot be given away, he said.

The appeal runs until Friday December 23.

How you can help:

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.