CHRISTMAS can be a difficult time for many, which is why the Salvation Army holds a Christmas Gift Appeal and Toy Drive.
For nearly four decades, these initiatives have brought smiles to the faces of families doing it tough.
Thousands of gifts were collected last year, setting records in parts of the Hunter region.
Salvation Army Auxiliary Lieutenant Bernie Muendel said the community’s support is what makes the annual Toy Drive so powerful.
“We know that cost-of-living pressures are impacting people, so seeing the community still donating what they can to help others is just so touching,” Lieutenant Muendel said.
The Salvation Army emphasises that gifts for all ages are appreciated, including babies and teenagers, and asks that they be new and unwrapped, so that anyone coming to the Salvation Army can choose gifts suitable for their families.
Those looking to donate are encouraged to bring toys, books, and games for younger children, and gift vouchers, sports equipment and beauty products for teenagers.
“We encourage parents to bring their children along when choosing a gift to donate.
“Allowing kids to select a present for a child their own age is a powerful way to teach them the true meaning of giving.”
Such appeals and drives have helped change lives for the better, helping parents and children build new lives in safety, warmth and choice.
Locally, the Myall Coast Community Art and Craft Centre will be accepting new and unwrapped donations, situated behind the Council office in Myall Street, Tea Gardens.
“The Centre is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm and Sundays 11am to 2pm,” local volunteer Elsa Jones told NOTA.
“All gifts, small and large, can be dropped off before Tuesday 9 December.
“They will then be collected by a Salvos community service leader from Raymond Terrace.”
Donations will also be accepted at Newcastle Permanent and Greater Bank branches until 12 December.
NGM Group’s Newcastle Permanent and Greater Bank is teaming up with The Salvation Army again this year.
Head of Community and Sustainability Kirrah McClelland said the organisation is dedicated to helping as many families as possible.
“We were truly touched by the generosity of our community last year… and we hope to exceed that number again this year,” Ms McClelland said.
“Christmas is such a special time and coming together as a community to wrap our arms around those in need this season is our absolute honour.”
By Thomas O’KEEFE
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