BUSINESSES, community groups, families and individuals are encouraged to consider those less fortunate this festive season by donating to the 2018 Mount Gambier Community Mayor’s Christmas Appeal.
A $50 donation will ensure one local family receives food and gifts this Christmas.
Mayor Andrew Lee launched this year’s appeal at Mount Gambier Central this week with Uniting Care, ac.care, Lifeline SE, St Vincent de Paul and The Salvation Army.
The five agencies unite each year to distribute all donations through the program.
“All of the funds raised by the appeal are received and distributed locally, it’s about locals helping locals to support the less fortunate, vulnerable or isolated members of the community at Christmas,” Mr Lee said.
“I urge the community to consider ways in which they can contribute to the appeal – pass the hat around your workplace, run a raffle, place a collection can on your counter or consider supporting a local family for as little as $50.”
The appeal aims to ensure all community members can experience the joy of Christmas by providing food hampers, grocery vouchers, toys and gifts to individuals and families.
“In 2017, the appeal supported 753 adults, 152 teenagers and 500 children across 440 different families,” Mr Lee said.
“It’s fitting that we launch the appeal at Mount Gambier Central as the centre plays an important role in supporting the appeal each year through contributions from the sale of photographs with Santa and the collection of bottles and cans from the food court.
“This is a great example of the type of support local businesses can offer to the appeal and I thank them for their support each year.”
Donations to the appeal can be made in person at the Mount Gambier Civic Centre or by contacting 8721 2555 with credit card details on hand.
Cheques to the Mount Gambier Community Mayor’s Christmas Appeal can be sent to PO Box 56, Mount Gambier.
