Working in the media can sometimes be a tough gig.
We have a front-row seat to everything that happens in the community, much of it is positive but plenty can be a little hard to stomach.
Luckily, being involved in this year's Rotorua Daily Post Christmas Appeal has welland truly restored my faith in humanity.
Our appeal, which officially wraps up tomorrow, aimed to help the Salvation Army Foodbank give out 200 food parcels to families in need this Christmas.
That target has been smashed because the Salvation Army is now set to distribute more than 300 parcels, spreading some much-needed Christmas joy after what has been a year like no other.
Before the appeal started we sat down and discussed whether it was a plausible option this year. So many people had suffered due to Covid-19 and the lockdown, we weren't sure how many would be willing or able to donate to the cause.
Salvation Army corps officer Ralph Overbye. Photo / File
I think going through lockdown and its aftermath together as a community, and realising how it had affected people, brought us closer together and inspired more people who were in a position to give to do so.
The generosity shown as donations flowed in from all corners of the community has been enough to bring this sensitive soul to tears.
We all say there is no gift better than giving and it seems it is a mantra the Rotorua community believes in.
A highlight for me was The Hits Fill the Bus, which I was lucky enough to take part in.
We spent a day taking the bus to schools, businesses and shopping centres, filling it with non-perishable foods for the appeal.
Rotorua Primary School children swarm the Grinch during The Hits Fill the Bus event. Photo / File
There was a vibe and energy about the day like nothing I have ever felt before. The number of people who got involved was simply overwhelming, from those who donated one can to those who donated boxes full of food, everyone pulled together for a worthy cause.
It has been an incredible six weeks and something I'm proud to have been a part of.
