With only seven weeks until Christmas the collection for local charities has begun in earnest.
The office of The Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath MP is again a collection point for donations of toys, gifts, pyjamas, and non-perishable food items.
All donations will be gifted to children and families in need in the local community by three local charity groups – Gippsland Motorcyclists Toy Run, A Better Life for Foster Kids and Enjoy Gippsland’s food relief ‘ReStore Pantry’.
Ms Bath is working alongside each of the charities to facilitate the donation of Christmas toys and gifts for children aged 0 -18 years and non-perishable food items for families during the upcoming festive period.
“Gifts such as toys, pyjamas and clothing are needed for children from infants to 18 years, and non-perishables food items will enable Enjoy Gippsland to stock its community pantry.
“With the rising cost of living in Victoria many local families are struggling to put food on the table or buy Christmas toys.
“On behalf of these fantastic local charities – the challenge is to fill my front window with Christmas cheer, so the spirit of giving can be passed on to vulnerable people in our community.”
Ms Bath said both the Gippsland Motorcyclists Toy Run, A Better Life for Foster Kids and Enjoy Gippsland are exemplary charities, each making a difference to the lives of Gippslanders.
“These respected local charities have for years delivered Christmas spirit, hope and love in the form of donated goods,” said Ms Bath.
“The tireless work of local charities, combined with our incredibly generous community will ensure the spirit of Christmas is alive and well in Gippsland.”
Ms Bath said any donation, big or small is welcome – there are many locals in need with demand often outstripping supply.
“The aim is to embrace the spirit of giving and ensure as many children and families as possible receive a gift to unwrap and have food on the table this Christmas.
All donations can be dropped into Melina Bath MP’s office located at 181 Franklin Street in Traralgon opposite Traralgon Centre Plaza, Monday – Friday between the hours of 9AM – 5PM.
The final date for donations is Friday 25 November 2022 – when all donations will be distributed to each charity for Christmas.
Presents do not need to be wrapped and can include sporting equipment, pyjamas, books, toys, puzzles, craft activities or gift cards.
Food stuffs need to be non-perishable items with a long shelf life – and can range from basics to higher end food products.
