But on behalf of the Sallies and the many people they help, I'll give it a go.
Thank you to the local businesses, schools, church groups and organisations who donated to the appeal. It's great to see the community come together in support.
A big thank-you to the Rotorua Trust, which again gave $5000 - this goes a long way; as does the $3000 given last week by an anonymous Rotorua woman.
Whoever you are - you've done a wonderful thing.
Thank you to our MP Todd McClay, whose efforts were mentioned in Kelly's editorial last Thursday.
And to the rest of those volunteers who hit the streets on the can drives - including members of the public, people from the Salvation Army, Ritchies, Mechanics in Motion, The Daily Post, Rotorua Fire Service and the Ngongotaha Fire Brigade - your efforts have made a huge difference and an awesome Christmas present for those less fortunate.
Thank you to our appeal co-ordinator, reporter Abigail Hartevelt, the driving force behind the fundraising.
And to Captains Brian and Amanda Martin and the work they do for the foodbank and extra miles they go. They go way beyond the call of duty.
But thank you most of all to everyone who gave, despite the tough times, including residents who gave when we knocked on the door, those who came out in the street in the rain, those who chased us down the street with their donations and those who brought food to our offices.
You've made someone's Christmas.
I hope yours is, in turn, a great one, and very merry to boot.
