This year The Examiner aims to raise $60,000 by December 25, and with only two weeks to go, charity services representatives are urging the community not to forget those most in need. 

“There are just so many people who are disadvantaged at Christmas,” St Vincent de Paul Society Fundraising Manager Maryanne Singline said. 

“We see families everyday who are struggling just to make ends meet. 

“Something like the Empty Stocking Appeal enables us to deliver that joy that everyone deserves to feel at Christmas time. No child should ever go without a present.”

This year all proceeds from the appeal will be shared evenly between four Launceston charities: the St Vincent de Paul Society,  Launceston Benevolent Society, City Mission and the Salvation Army.

Launceston City Mission Marketing Co-ordinator Julia Johnston said last year the organisation was able to help 300 individuals with food and gift hampers, thanks to the Empty Stocking Appeal. 

“This is one of our busiest times of year,” she said.

“We have definitely seen an increase in the demand of our services.

“Our latest report showed a 40 per cent increase in the amount of people utilising our family services.

“I think that shows how important something like the Empty Stocking Appeal is.”

It is estimated that there are now more than 74,000 Tasmanians living below the poverty line.

During the last financial year, City Mission experienced an unprecedented demand with almost 3000 individuals and families asking for help to meet basic food, electricity and fuel needs.

The 2016 Christmas period also saw a record in demand for food and Christmas toys, creating added pressure on donated food supplies.

“For people who might be already struggling with everyday expenses, having to think about buying presents and extra food is sometimes just too much,” Ms Singline said. 

“We really appreciate the support of the community and hopefully this year we can help even more people.” 

The running total for the Empty Stocking Appeal stands at $38,431.40.