In one month, families across Rotorua will be enjoying Christmas with family and friends.
It's a time of giving, reflecting on the year, and as always, an abundance of food.
But, among this joyful time is a sad reality that some local families face as they struggle to put a meal on the table.
It's deeply saddening knowing this is what some people in our community will face over Christmas.
This is where you can help make a difference by donating food to the Rotorua Daily Post Christmas Appeal.
Rotorua Lakes Council is helping this appeal by collecting donations at our reception in the Civic Centre, and at our library Te Aka Mauri.
The team at Salvation Army do an amazing job all year round and have given out more than 1000 food parcels this year.
But the need for donations to support vulnerable families is still high.
Here in Rotorua we are known around the world for our manaakitanga, which is the generosity and care we show for others.
So this Christmas, I invite you to continue this giving spirit that our community has and encourage your family and workplaces to give a little – or a lot – to our families who need it the most.