Annual tradition rooted in kindness in full bloom across the Illawarra

There’s no one story Solange Frost could share to embody the significance of the Giving Tree tradition.

The St Vincent de Paul regional director south says it’s the everyday stories that do it.

“When you’re struggling to pay the bills, keep a roof over your head and put day-to-day meals on the table, as Christmas approaches, those choices are even starker,” Ms Frost says.

“Your generous donation will ease this burden and bring joy to a child at this difficult time of year.”

Three giving trees have been announced for the Illawarra. In the Wollongong LGA, donations of unwrapped gifts can be made at various locations stretching from Coles Helensburgh to as far south as Dapto Library until 13 December. Gifts can also be placed in the box next to the Christmas tree in the Shellharbour Civic Centre, in the foyer of Kiama Council’s administration building in Manning Street, Kiama Library and The Pavilion, until 6 December.

These timeframes give volunteers time to sort, wrap and distribute the gifts to families by Christmas.

The trees allow Illawarra locals to share the holiday spirit by donating gifts such as toys, books, clothing and non-perishable holiday treats, which will be distributed by councils and charity partners to underprivileged families across the city.

Shellharbour City Council has partnered with St Vincent de Paul for distribution, and Wollongong City Council with both Vinnies and Anglicare.

Ms Frost says the need this year is as great as ever.

“In the last year or two, we’ve seen many more working families – that is, families with two working adults – coming to us because they are having to choose between keeping a roof over their heads or putting food on the table,” she says.

“Last year, over a third of the people who came to us came for the first time. Last financial year in the Wollongong area alone we supported 12,600 people and distributed $1.6 million in financial and material aid – up by over 40 per cent on the previous year. The demand has increased at staggering rates and has really broadened.

“One family who came to us recently was spending 90 per cent of their income on rent. Being able to give families like that something from under the Giving Tree means the world.”

Last year’s Wollongong Giving Tree saw more than 1400 toys donated for children up to 16 years of age.

While all contributions are appreciated, the council and its partners are asking donors to consider donations appropriate for kids 11, 12 or older.

“We all enjoy the giving spirit of Christmas at this time of year,” Wollongong Lord Mayor Tania Brown says.

“It is a special time to be enjoyed, but unfortunately it is not so easy for all families, particularly those who, due to many different circumstances, may be struggling to provide those precious Christmas moments for their kids.

“It’s why I urge anyone capable of doing so to donate to the Giving Tree Appeal. You may never see the joy it brings to a child lucky enough to receive your gift, but it can make an incredible difference and perhaps even create a memory that lasts a lifetime.”

Kiama Council Mayor Cameron McDonald shares the sentiment.

“Support for the Mayor’s Giving Tree from our community has always been strong and enthusiastic, allowing families doing it tough to fully celebrate Christmas,” Councillor McDonald says.

“This Christmas, with the cost of living, there’ll be even more families than usual finding it hard to afford gifts for the Christmas tree or stockings, so I ask people who can help to please do so.”

Donations of unwrapped gifts can be made:

• Wollongong: Various locations from Coles Helensburgh to Dapto Library until 13 December.
• Shellharbour: In the box next to the Christmas tree in the Shellharbour Civic Centre until 6 December.
• Kiama: In the foyer of the council’s administration building in Manning Street, Kiama Library and The Pavilion until 6 December.