FOUR Northern Tasmanian organisations received a much-needed boost to get them through the Christmas season yesterday, as they were handed the bulk of funds raised by The Examiner  Empty Stocking Appeal.

Brian Roach, of the  City Mission, Kevin Lumb, of the Salvation Army, Jane Forrest, of the St Vincent de Paul Society, and John Stuart, of the Launceston Benevolent Society, each received $9000 on behalf of their organisations.

On Monday they will receive funds raised by Launceston's Carols by Candlelight, as well as any last-minute donations to the appeal.

Mr Stuart said the donation was ``huge'', ensuring a month's worth of food vouchers during a high-demand time.

``We've seen a huge increase in people needing help this Christmas compared with last year, given the present downturn, and I know it's the same for other agencies,'' Mr Stuart said.

``We're seeing a lot of working poor, and I imagine it must feel terrible to have a family and not be able to provide for them at a time of giving.''