If you look for the good in people, you will always find it. It was this core ethos of the St Vincent de Paul Society that led them to hire Layla Blake.
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Starting as a volunteer and later moving into a full-time role at Vinnies' Mowbray warehouse, the 20-year-old said she had always wanted to help people.
But getting a foot in the door for employment often proved challenging - until she came across Vinnies.
Now six months into her role as a storeperson, Ms Blake said she was taking everything as it came.
"I have always wanted to help the less fortunate, in whatever I do," she said.
"You have to be willing to do it, the work, but there are huge rewards. Self development is one big thing you notice. To become more willing and strong.
"I have learned about other people's backgrounds.They might not show it up front, but you get to know them and the littlest things make the big difference to someone."
The St Vincent de Paul Society is one of four Northern Tasmanian charities set to benefit from this year's Empty Stocking Appeal.
Now in its 111th year, this year the target has been set to raise $90,000 for those most in need.
From packing furniture to managing stock, Vinnies membership and community services manager Melissa White said it could be easy to forget about the vital role staff like Ms Blake make for people in need.
"It's the missing link really, all the hard work behind the scenes someone like Layla does," she said.
"Especially our warehouse staff. The Empty Stocking Appeal supports families in many ways. Those who really do it tough at Christmas.
"We are able to help in many ways, through this extra support - from food and gifts. And we constantly support people with furniture, which is where Layla comes in.
"We also take a holistic approach to support people on their journey. That's not just people we assist in our office. It's our staff and volunteers as well."
More than $6500 has been raised for the Empty Stocking Appeal.
Donations can be made at The Examiner's office or any business or group with a donations tin.
For online banking use BSB 035 822, account 011443538. For BPAY, use biller code 49429, reference 0100 30091 9001443538 8.
Jessica Willard
Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
