Every year Rotorua people have generously opened their hearts and their wallets to whichever worthy cause has benefited from The Daily Post annual Christmas appeal.
Over the years hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised for the likes of Hospice, the Salvation Army, the SPCA, Women's Refuge, Riding for the
Disabled and this year, the Lakes Branch of the Child Cancer Foundation.
Unfortunately, there aren't too many people who haven't been touched by cancer at some point in their lives and this year an amazing $17,743 was raised for The Daily Post appeal.
It will go a long way to helping local families in the Rotorua and Taupo districts who are affected by child cancer.
The local branch is currently supporting 34 families and receives no government funding.
In the past few weeks we have featured the stories of some of those families and their children and each have had compelling stories to tell and shown an incredible resilience and strength to get through the toughest times.
The efforts of those who have donated and raised funds in aid of the appeal have also featured in the paper and each and every donation, no matter how big or small, will make a big difference to the families the dedicated people from the Child Cancer Foundation help and support.
Given that times are still financially tough for many residents, the amount raised is incredible and is testament to the generosity locals have always shown when there is a worthy cause to support.
People are always touched by the hardships of others.
It makes us all realise how fortunate we are to have what we have, underlines the fact that there are always people much worse off and compels us to do whatever we can to help.
Giving money is all many people can do.
Thanks Rotorua.
We hope you all have a very happy Christmas.
