Shellharbour Mayoress' Giving Tree appeals for donations to brighten Christmas for families in need

Shellharbour residents are being encouraged to help spread some Christmas joy by placing donated gifts for families under the Mayoress’ Giving Tree.

Vikki Muller, the partner of Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer, encouraged people to get involved in the Giving Tree appeal to help those doing it tough this Christmas.

Each year, Shellharbour City Council gives community members an opportunity to share the holiday spirit by donating items that will be distributed to families in need across the city by St Vincent De Paul.

Vikki said it was particularly important this year because of the volume of people struggling with the cost of living.

“It’s been a very tough few years for many families, and together we can provide some hope and happiness,” she said.

“I think it’s bringing people back to being kind and generous to your neighbours and community and shows that if we all work together, we can do wonderful things.

“The Mayoress’ Giving Tree allows each of us to share in the true spirit of Christmas.”

She said while gifts were being sought for children, teenagers and adults, it was teenagers in particular who often struggled to receive enough donations for each year.

“We’re asking for gifts for all the way up to teenagers, but teenagers are the age we find difficult to get presents for,” she said.

“I like the idea of things that are sporty, educational or eco-friendly and something where they can get active as well are good.”

Vikki said other gifts for teenagers included Kmart or Target gift vouchers, while suggested items for other age groups included toys, books, clothing, and non-perishable holiday treats.

She said that with more in the community now doing it tough, she appreciated that not all families were in a position to give but encouraged those who could get involved as donations declined across all charities.

“Your generous donations of gifts and vouchers will help create magical moments for families who are having a tough time this Christmas,” she said.

“It’s about coming together as a community and helping those that are a little less fortunate and struggling.”

Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer echoed Vikki’s sentiments, calling on residents to take part in the initiative and help ensure everyone in the community experiences the joy of Christmas.

“We have a wonderful tradition here in Shellharbour of coming together to support each other, and the Mayoress’ Giving Tree is a fantastic way to make a meaningful difference,” Cr Homer said.

“A small gift can bring such joy to a child or family who might otherwise go without. I encourage everyone who can to get involved.”

Council has asked for gifts to be new and unwrapped, with items for children, teenagers and adults to be placed in the box next to the Christmas tree in the Shellharbour Civic Centre until 6 December.

Volunteers will then sort, wrap and distribute to families before Christmas.

Those who choose to donate a Target or Kmart gift voucher are asked to send it to Shellharbour City Council Mayoress’ Giving Tree, care of Jo Frasca, Locked Bag 155 Shellharbour City Centre, NSW, 2529.