There's concern Kiwi families who can't fill stockings this year might be left empty-handed as the country's largest Christmas appeal falls short.
So far the Salvation Army only has 10,000 gifts, just 22 percent of its total target, with only a week to go until Christmas.
Sharon Butler says she's paying it forward because the cause is close to her heart.
Seven years ago, Ms Butler lost her colleague and friend Austin Hemmings, who would always give money to the Wishing Tree Appeal.
Mr Hemmings died in 2008 after being stabbed in central Auckland. He was attacked during rush hour, when he rushed to the aid of a woman who was stabbed in the face. He died almost immediately.
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