Call to assist festive cause
As the end of the year draws closer and more financial stress is placed on families doing it tough, a Waimate initiative for those in need is being held for the sixth year.
The Waimate District Council is encouraging residents to get into the giving spirit and support the Christmas Child initiative, headed by mayoress Lyn Stringer.
Over the past five years, she has helped co-ordinate hundreds of donated gifts to families doing it tough during the festive season, with support growing each year.
‘‘It is incredibly heartening how generous Waimate residents are when it comes to children at Christmas-time,’’ Stringer said.
‘‘I love seeing the amazing gifts that are given for the children of families struggling for all number of reasons.
‘‘Over the years, we have had beautiful books, toys and clothing for babies right up to board games for families and a local business even donated swimming passes pool.’’
She said as the year came to an end, there could be a lot of added financial stress on families doing it tough.
‘‘There will be many out there doing their best and struggling through, and this initiative is a great way to put the smiles on the children’s faces and make things just that little easier for some. [In advance], I’d like to extend a big thanks to everyone that gets behind this cause,’’ Stringer said. The initiative is run in conjunction with Community Link Waimate, with all gifts wrapped and distributed to families in the days leading up to December 25.
Anyone wishing to participate can visit the council’s reception foyer and place a new, unwrapped gift for a girl or boy up to the age of 15 years under the Christmas tree.
However, due to health and safety reasons, no stuffed toys will be accepted. All food items and nonperishable goods can go directly to the Waimate Community Foodbank on Glasgow St.
All donations must be received by midday on December 9. for our local swimming