Good start to appeal
Westpac Bank recognises that Christmas is tough for families on low incomes. For over a decade it has run an appeal to collect presents so that some of Tararua’s children do not miss out on Christmas morning.
Already in the first week a good number of presents have been donated but the need is huge and the community is invited to bring in gifts or money to the bank. The presents should be identified as suitable for a boy or girl with an appropriate age.
While last year’s response was good there was a dearth of presents for teenagers — Lynda Ellington saying even just a deodorant or a diary or a pen would help them greatly.
All the gifts will be passed on to the Salvation Army for distribution. Donations need to be in by Wednesday, December 19 to allow this to be done. They do not need to be wrapped.
Dannevirke and Pahiatua Westpac Bank manager Fiona Suurenbroek says, “This project is a simple but very effective way to bring a lot of joy to families who need a bit of extra help at this time of the year.”
She adds that the Pahiatua Westpac branch had a great response to its own Christmas tree last year and she hopes Help ‘n’ Hand will have lots to dispense to children from Woodville south.
Speaking for the Salvation Army, Lynda Ellingham said there is a real and increasing need. The Salvation Army knows from issuing regular food parcels throughout the year who the genuine families are and the organisation is most grateful to Westpac Bank for helping them replenish their supply.
Here’s the challenge. Can Dannevirke exceed last year’s response of more than 350 presents and can Pahiatua match that challenge? As Lynda says, “This is all about community helping community.”