Christmas is generally a festive time of the year, but for some, it can be a challenging time spent thinking of the people who we can't be with.

They may have died, they may be living overseas or in other parts of the country, or perhaps just can't be with you at this time of year.

The Waipuna Hospice Remembrance Tree Appeal is a time when the community is encouraged to leave a message on a Christmas tree for their loved ones, remembering those who they can't be with.

Waipuna Hospice needs your help this year to make that possible.

They are looking for volunteers to help with their Remembrance Tree Appeal in November and December.

As a Remembrance Tree Volunteer you will be a friendly face helping someone make a donation and write a special message for a loved one to place on the Waipuna Hospice Remembrance tree.

Funds raised from this appeal will go directly towards supporting the terminally ill and bereaved in Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.

Everything Waipuna Hospice provides is at no cost to patients and their families because they believe that hospice care should be available for everyone. However, while completely free of charge, their services cost a lot to provide.

Waipuna Hospice is not funded by the government, and while some of their services have historically been contracted by what was the District Health Board, they still need to raise over $7.5million in the coming financial year to meet the shortfall in their operating costs.

That's why their Remembrance Tree Appeal is so important.

Last year their Remembrance Tree Appeal raised almost $60,000 for Waipuna Hospice, which was only made possible thanks to the generosity and support from volunteers.

It may seem early to think about Christmas, but Waipuna Hospice needs your help to make their campaign a success.

So, if you can spare just two hours this November and/or December and want to help raise money for people in your community facing a life-limiting illness, please sign up at www.waipunahospice.org.nz/remembrance-tree-volunteer-22, phone Michael on 07 552 6892, or email events@waipunahospice.org.nz.

Shifts are only two hours long, and there are opportunities to volunteer all across Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty.