A local neighbourhood centre has appealed to residents to help bring some festive cheer to a growing number of disadvantaged families in the region.
The Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre has launched its Christmas appeal, compiling food and gifts for people impacted by homelessness, domestic and family violence, poverty and health issues.
Centre CEO Michael Henning said a dramatic increase in the cost of living had contributed to a spike in the number of families struggling to make ends meet.
“New research from the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicates the cost of living for working Australians has skyrocketed by a staggering 9 per cent in the last year,” he said.
“While many of us are feeling the pinch, the sad reality is that some Sunshine Coast families are now unable to afford daily meals, let alone Christmas celebrations.
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“It is heartbreaking to think that hundreds of local children could spend Christmas with an empty stomach and without a present to open, so we’re determined to lend a helping hand to every family in need.”
Mr Henning said the centre welcomed donations of gifts and non-perishable food and encouraged community members in a position to help to drop items to the centre from December 15.
“No donation is too small and all items will be gratefully received. Even a simple packet of pasta can go a long way, so supporters have the option to donate a single food item or gift if that suits their budget, or they can go as far as supporting an entire family.”
Sunshine Coast dredging and civil construction business Hall Contracting has led the charge in supporting the appeal, having donated more than $5000 worth of food and toys to kick off the campaign.
Hall Contracting CEO and director Cameron Hall said the company was proud to support such a worthy cause and had compiled 15 hampers as well as a range of toys, bikes, books, electronics and sporting equipment.
“The hampers contain some special treats for Christmas day as well as a range of everyday staples to help local families put food on the table over the coming weeks,” he said.
“While we’ve purchased some gifts for all ages, we made a concerted effort to select plenty of items for teenagers, as donations for this cohort are traditionally somewhat limited compared to their younger counterparts.
“We’ve also put the call out to our staff to donate gifts if they are in a position to do so.
“Many of our team members are mums and dads themselves, so they know just how much joy some festive cheer can bring to a child’s life.”
Community members wishing to donate to the 2023 Adopt a Family Christmas appeal can drop their donations to the centre at 2 Fifth Avenue, Maroochydore.
Donors are asked not to wrap gifts, this will allow the centre to direct each one to the most appropriate recipient; only donate new items; and not to donate toy weapons or items that promote violence of any kind, as children who have experienced family violence may find these items distressing.
