Editorial: Generous spirit alive and well in Rotorua

One of the best things about our annual Christmas Appeal is seeing first-hand the generosity of locals willing to help out those less fortunate.

This year we're supporting the Salvation Army food bank.

From the appeal recipients and their tireless work for the needy, to the volunteers - including fire staff and Richies staff - who pounded the streets on Tuesday night, and our appeal co-ordinator Abbey Hartevelt, people are somehow finding that extra bit of time needed to make a difference for others they, for the most part, wouldn't even know.

And that's just one side of it.

To say the generosity of those who gave to the appeal was astounding is perhaps a bit unfair. Because year after year, appeal after appeal the people of Rotorua consistently give generously. It's no surprise when you do so again.

Behind nearly every door I knocked on the other night was a resident who managed to find something in the cupboards, often a full shopping bag's worth of goods.

Others didn't even let us get to the doors, hearing the whoop of the fire siren and rushing out to meet us at the kerb with their donations.

But best of all were those who jumped in their cars and raced up the street to find us in our distinctive fluoro vests, making sure we didn't miss their contribution.

We couldn't get to every suburb so there's a good chance we didn't come down your street, but you can still give to the appeal.

Donations can be made at our Hinemoa St office between 8am and 5pm on weekdays. People can donate money or non-perishable food. Food donations can also be made at the Salvation Army's Community Ministries at Community House on Haupapa St.

If any organisations or individuals are organising a can drive or fundraising event, please let us know by contacting Abbey on (07) 348 6199 ext 57049 or email abbey.hartevelt@dailypost.co.nz.

What do you think?

Email editor@dailypost.co.nz, text DP then your message to 021 241 4568, or write to editor, PO Box 1442, Rotorua.

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