The Chronicle

Families in need to be showered with love

- MEG GANNON meg.gannon@news.com.au

THE Toowoomba Hospital Foundation was adamant about ending this “awful” year in a beautiful way, and the Christmas Lunch is sure to do that.

The event is held every year, and guests are invited by referral from family and friends.

Foundation CEO Alison Kennedy said the lunch was open to anyone not spending Christmas with their families or doing it a bit tough.

“We absolutely love hosting Neighbourh­ood Christmas each year, it’s such a beautiful event and a great way for us to give people who are struggling or spending Christmas alone a chance to really enjoy what the season is all about,” she said.

“As a community we’ve all had a pretty tough year, financiall­y, emotionall­y and mentally, and I think Christmas this year is going to look a little different for a lot of people and families.”

The lunch will include a two-course meal, presents for every child who attends, and a guest appearance from Santa Claus.

Community service providers, community organisati­ons, refuges and crisis accommodat­ions are encouraged to register their clients to attend the Neighbourh­ood Christmas Lunch.

For the community looking to support the event, Ray White Toowoomba will be doing its annual toy drive in support of Neighbourh­ood Christmas. Presents must be new as preloved toys cannot be accepted. If you are or know someone who has fallen on hard times this festive season, contact the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation on 4616 6166 or email admin@toowoombah­ospitalfou­ndation.org.au.

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