Every little bit helps Salvation Army in Rotorua to help others at Christmas (+video)

Growing up my family weren't the most well off and we often relied on the help of others just to get by.

My dad was made redundant more than 30 times (yes, 30 times) and my mum often worked three jobs just to keep my three siblings and me from complaining of hunger pangs.

When I was about 8, I remember moving into a new house, in a new town, after my dad had been given a new job and when we arrived we had no food for the first week because dad hadn't received his wages.

That first night a lady from the local church came over with a box of food to welcome us and my mum cried.

This past month, as part of the Rotorua Daily Post Christmas Appeal for the Salvation Army Foodbank, I have been reporting on the generosity of people from all over Rotorua and it has blown me away.

Right now it's the busiest season for the Sallies and many people rely on their generosity to help get by.

Because of this, I spent some time down at the foodbank as a volunteer over the past week and meet several regular volunteers who are such inspiring people who give simply because they can.

I was put on counting duty as the Fill the Bus can drive had brought in thousands of items, thanks to Rotorua people, that needed sorting.

It doesn't take much to make someone's day a little bit easier - a box of food, a toy or even an hour of your time. It's Christmas time and there's no reason why we shouldn't give even just a little.

Thank you for your generosity this far, Rotorua, and Merry Christmas.

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.