The Hastings’ Christmas spirit continues to shine brightly this festive season despite a year challenged by floods and a worldwide pandemic.

Sovereign Hills was delighted to share the Christmas love with three wonderful local organisations which have been working tirelessly to ensure local families and children facing hardship don’t miss out this year.

They included The Salvation Army Port Macquarie and Make a Difference Port Macquarie which have been delivering Christmas food hampers, essential items and surprises for all ages, and the Port Macquarie Base Hospital children’s ward, which will take care of our youngest residents and visitors these holidays.

“It’s the difference between children waking up on Christmas morning with nothing or something,” explained Salvation Army Youth and Children Officer Greg Cocking. “Just even having a gift to open is fantastic, for people who are in a situation where they are really struggling it makes a great difference.”

Sovereign Hills donated gift vouchers, Sovereign Place Your Discount Chemist toiletries and children’s toys and sports balls to the Port Macquarie chapter which assisted more than 400 families and singles during this testing year.

“We are so thankful for our community, the Hastings-Port Macquarie community for the help that we receive because 100 percent of what comes in, goes back out to the community.”

“Thank you to Sovereign Hills. Your ongoing support over these last few years has made such a big difference,” he added.

Make a Difference Port Macquarie volunteer Erin Denham welcomed Sovereign Hills’ donation of fresh fruit produce and ham hampers from Ken Little’s Fruit and Veg, as well as gifts, toiletries, toys and gift cards for local families who have experienced a challenging year after being impacted by the floods in March.

“The residents are slowly returning to their homes after being displaced for many months. Others have been living at their residence but surrounded by flood damage. Many are still waiting to have work completed to get their homes back to a liveable standard.”

Port Macquarie Base Hospital Nursing Unit Manager Darlene Malineack was thrilled to take delivery of toys and craft kits aimed at putting a smile on the faces of visiting children this Christmas, as well as chocolates, lollies and tea for the hardworking staff this festive season.

“It’s hard because you’re away from your own family, but it’s also a privilege to be here, supporting the sick kids,” she shared.

“The donations from Sovereign Hills will make the stay in hospital over the Christmas period a lot brighter, lots of things to do and it will help us bring joy to the kids.”

Sovereign Hills would like to wish you all a merry Christmas and a safe holiday season.