Tears of joy from Christmas hampers
A merry band of volunteers produced joy, smiles and even tears of joy to 110 families last week leading into Christmas.
A visit to the Warragul Salvation Army on Tuesday saw about 30 volunteers packing food hampers for needy families in the local community.
The volunteers came from the church together with some East Tarago Venturers from Warragul Scout Group. More than half were young faces.
“Some of these people have been doing it for years,” said Warragul Salvation Army captain Amanda Hart. “Every year they come and help.”
Once all the food was packed and toys set out in age groups, Ms Hart said 110 families visited on Wednesday to collect their hamper and select a big toy, medium toy and stocking filler for their children.
The reward for volunteers is seeing the smiles and sometimes happy tears on people’s faces.
“We get people who come in a just take one toy for their kid,” she added. “They will just be in tears because there is stuff for them to chose and they can actually give their family Christmas. We can see they appreciate it.”
Ms Hart praised the Warragul and Drouin Gazette and Priceline Pharmacy who act as drop-off points for hamper donations as well as Bunnings who donate the baskets.
Local businesses proved their generosity with donations, including gift vouchers.
St Joseph’s Primary School’s drum and guitar students also raised $750 via a day of busking in the Warragul CBD.
“The community response has just been amazing,” said Ms Hart.
She said a lot of people and families seeking assistance this Christmas had been hit by the increased cost of living, unaffordable accommodation in the region, and upcoming school costs.
“There’s various reasons people find themselves in the position they are in, but the big one is cost of living,” said Ms Hart.
She added families overstretching at Christmas was common.
“Quite often at this time of year, it’s wanting to give your family a good Christmas. It’s like rational thinking and budgeting goes out the window.”
“I think we forget the real meaning of Christmas.”