Open hearts and wallets to less fortunate at Christmas
CThe effect of Covid-19 in our communities has hit individuals and families hard, with jobs losses and changes making Christmas even tougher.
hristmas is just over five weeksawayand this year, as always, it will bemade brighter formanyfamilies thanks to our community’s generosity to the Katikati Advertiser’s annualCommunityChristmas gift appeal.
The Christmas tree at the Advertiser office is upand sparkling ready for gifts to be donated tomake this year special forsomeof our local children, young people and adults having a rough time. It’s not just young familieswhowill benefit, as gift parcels will bemadeupfor elderly living on their own.
“The effect of Covid-19 in our communities has hit individuals and families hard, with job losses and changes making Christmas even tougher,” says Advertiser editor Chris Steel.
Volunteer Leonie McIntosh-Alder is joining withPamToddfrom the Katikati Foodbank and the team of volunteers from the Combined Churches in organising the collection and distribution of gifts.
People are welcome to donatenew gifts or secondhand items (in good condition) and non-perishable Christmas food items in tins or jars. Books, puzzles, games, toys, toiletries for all age groups, colouring books, pencils, chocolate, candy canes, biscuits, wrapping paper— all donations are welcome.
Gifts don’t need to be wrapped and donations ofmoneywill also be gratefully accepted.
“Whatever is given iswelcome and muchappreciated.”
Gifts are delivered to local people in need using Christian helpline information. The namesof deserving recipients are welcome and details can be provided by phoning the Christian Helpline on 549-1038.
Donated gifts can be delivered to the Advertiser office at Unit 3, The Village on Main Rd, on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9am-12pm. Gifts for the appeal can also be left next door at Choice Variety, at Vern’s Restaurant at the KatikatiRSAand at The Arts Junction.
The appeal ends at midday Monday, December 14.
Below, the light of Christmas is already shining with cuddly teddies and gifts good to go.