With the cost of living and poverty on the rise, Uniting Vic.Tas Wyndham are calling on residents to help make the festive season a little brighter for families in need.
Uniting Vic.Tas team leader emergency relief Shelley Johnston said the Gifts for Families Appeal supports disadvantaged local families by providing toys and gifts generously donated by the community for children in need and more families than ever are expected to ask for help this year.
“We know cost-of-living pressures have stretched many budgets to breaking point,” Ms Johnston said.
“Whether it’s the cost of rent, gas and electricity or putting fuel in the car, we know people are really struggling. Affording the necessities is now out of reach for many and they’re having to choose between putting food on the table and paying their bills.
“Gifts For Families is one of the highlights of every year for us – we are determined that no one is going to go without a gift this Christmas.
“Putting smiles on the faces of families and providing gifts to deserving children and young people is so rewarding. We hope you, your group, school, workplace or family can make sure there are gifts under every Christmas tree in our community.”
Residents can help by donating new gifts such as toys, sports equipment, books, new clothes or e-gift cards.
Gifts can also be purchased online and sent to Uniting in Wyndham, 1-3 Duncans Road, Werribee.
Donors are also encouraged to tins of non-perishable food to ensure struggling families have something to put on the table on Christmas Day.
Donation drop offs can be made at Wyndham Community and Education Centre, Uniting’s Werribee op-shop, Dianella Community Centre, Penrose Promenade Community Centre, Manor Lakes Community Learning Centre, Tarneit Community Centre and Arndell Park Community Centre.
