Star-studded appeal set for waterfront
We may almost be done with Halloween, but that means we’re not far away from the big one Christmas.
Wellington City Mission launched its Star Appeal on the Wellington waterfront yesterday with mascot Starry, and acting mayor Jill Day.
The Christmas Walk of Fame, now in its third year, gives individuals and groups a chance to buy a star to be displayed on the waterfront from December 1 up to Christmas.
Each star represents a family in need being supported this Christmas.
Last year, Wellington City Mission raised enough funds to provide 3000 people food parcels and give 9300 presents to children on Christmas Day.
It installed 200 stars on the waterfront. This year, it is hoping to go bigger.
‘‘I can’t wait to see how far it goes,’’ Day said.
The walk of fame is a great visual way to draw attention to the crucial work the mission does, she said.
Wellington City Mission has already secured 60 stars to go on the waterfront, stars start at $100 and display the names of those who funded them.
‘‘It is our most important appeal of the year,’’ Wellington City Mission chief executive Michelle Branney said.
The stars are a ‘‘a bit of fun’’ for a serious cause, she said.
‘‘We look after the people who have the least ... people who don’t have a proper meal.’’
The funds raised provide families gifts and food hampers over Christmas and into the New Year.
City Mission supplies food parcels throughout the year, but during the holiday season the parcels are tailored for the celebration.
❚ Visit ChristmasStar.co.nz to donate, buy a star, find out how to volunteer, and learn locations where to drop donations of food and goods.