But when she finally cracked open her piggy bank, she decided to donate the money instead of spending it on herself.

Mia's mother, Nicole, works for St Vincent de Paul - one of four organisations supported through The Examiner's Empty Stocking Appeal - and Mia has seen all the important work they do.

"She decided that she wanted to donate it to help others less fortunate than her - those were her words," Nicole Manshanden said. "Especially homeless people is what she said."

"I'm just so proud of my little eight-year-old wanting to donate instead of going to Kmart and spending it on toys."

Tuesday was Giving Tuesday - the most popular time to donate to charity in the United States.

Held every year the Tuesday after the American holiday Thanksgiving, the day is an antidote to the Black Friday day of shopping sales.

It started in 2012 and grew to such a scale that over $400 million was donated within the US last year.

St Vincent de Paul Tasmania chief executive Lara Alexander said the charity was embracing the idea.

"The message is to take the opportunity on this day to think about giving - but of course you don't have to stick to one day to think about those that are less fortunate," she said.

"It's so important to keep in mind that there are people around us that may not have the benefits that we have, and the things we take for granted.

"We hope people support The Examiner's appeal, because it's not just about us, it's about all the charities."

Ms Manshanden said Christmas was the perfect time to donate to Vinnies for two reasons.

The first is that it is one of their busiest times of the year, with struggling community members needing food, clothes, and blankets, as well as presents for their children.

The second is that people are highly aware of spending the money anyway.

"If you buy a $5 present for somebody, spend $5 on somebody you don't know as well," she said. "That's a really easy way to do it."

The Examiner's Empty Stocking appeal goes to St Vincent de Paul, the Benevolent Society, City Mission, and the Salvation Army.

Donations can be made at The Examiner office on Cimitiere Street.

For bank transfer use the details: BSB 035822, Account 011443538

For BPAY use details: Biller Code 49429, reference 0110 30091 9001443538 8