Willing hands needed to share spirit of Santa
THE Magic Moments Foundation is gearing up for its second year of playing Santa’s little helper in Geelong.
Its Basket Brigade program returns and you can join an army of elves to help spread the festive cheer.
The Basket Brigade provides struggling families with baskets brimming with food and toys before Christmas Day.
MMF Basket Brigade national program co-ordinator Nikki Galagher said volunteers were vital to “empowering people, turning hope into reality and giving these people a hand up, not a handout”.
The national program, which has been operating for more than 20 years, relies on the help of volunteers. Last year’s secret Santas brought Christmas cheer to more than 4000 families across a number of Australian cities, including Geelong, the Sunshine Coast, Perth and Sydney.
The Basket Brigade program is now beginning its annual drive, seeking help from the public willing to donate non-perishable goods, as well as unused toys and gifts to fill thousands of hampers for families in need.
“It costs just $40 to feed a family a hamper of groceries,” Ms Galagher said.
To register to support the brigade in your area and to view the Magic Moments Foundation’s programs visit magicmoments.org.au
To join the food and toy drive in Geelong, register at geelongbasketbuddies.org