Bring in your pressies for Nelson’s needy
A Nelson real estate company is buying gifts for those in need instead of holding an office Secret Santa, and is challenging other businesses to get into the community spirit the same way.
The 11 staff from Mike Pero offices in Nelson, Stoke and Richmond walked into the Nelson Mail reception yesterday and delighted staff by placing armfuls of Christmas goodies under the tree.
The presents will be collected and sorted by the Salvation Army, which will then distribute them to Nelson families in need.
‘‘Our offices decided to donate gifts this year instead of giving them to each other like we often do for Secret Santa,’’ Mike Pero Real Estate’s Mitchell Wilson said.
Wilson said it was the first time the firm had given to the newspaper’s Christmas tree appeal, and he encouraged other local businesses to do the same.
Nelson Mail regional editor Victoria Guild said the tree was a tradition, and the public had always been big supporters.
‘‘Every year I’m touched by the generosity of Nelsonians who want everyone to have a bit of Christmas cheer. Last Christmas, I think the Salvation Army made four trips to collect presents, as they were almost spilling out the door,’’ she said.
The Salvation Army’s Captain Kenneth Walker works closely with the annual appeal. He said a wide range of people who received the gifts.
Walker said educational toys and gifts that encouraged children to play outdoors were great ideas. Gifts for teenagers and parents, who also could miss out on presents at this time of year, were also welcome.
‘‘Perfumes, aftershaves, shower gels – such luxuries would be of great value to these older groups,’’ Walker said.
Presents should be unwrapped, and delivered to the Nelson Mail reception between 8.30am and 4pm before December 14.