Editorial: Giving can make difference

'Tis the season to be giving.

Christmas is fast approaching and - for me at least - that usually means a mad rush on the eve of the big day to get all my gift shopping done.

Navigating a path through crowded shops or bustling malls on a hot summer's day is not my idea of an enjoyable outing, but I take comfort in the knowledge that on Christmas Day I will get to enjoy a relaxing meal with family and friends.

It's easy to take such days for granted.

However, Christmas can be a stressful time for families experiencing tough times.

And that's why the Tauranga Community Foodbank is so important. It provides food for families struggling to put meals on the table.

This year alone, the food bank has helped nearly 7000 adults and nearly 10,000 children.

The Bay of Plenty Times launched its annual Christmas appeal, raising food and money for the foodbank on November 8.

It is the fourth year in a row the paper has supported the charity. The three campaigns so far have helped raise more than $206,000, which has been used to help families in need.

This year's appeal has got off to a great start.

As we report today, Bay of Plenty law firm Holland Beckett Lawyers last week donated its $1892.05 TECT rebate to the charity, bringing the total donated in the first week of the campaign to $2750.

Holland Beckett partner Lara Burkhardt says it is the fourth year the firm had donated its rebate and it had become a popular tradition.

"We get the TECT refund cheque right at this point in time right before Christmas when there are so many families in need," she says.

Everyone can play a part in the campaign and every donation helps. Details of how you can donate are published in today's edition.

Giving a can or two can help make all the difference to those in need.