As the festive season unfolds, Sovereign Hills and Lewis Land are proud to contribute $10,000 in donations to support those facing challenges in the Port Macquarie-Hastings community.
Amid rising living costs and increasing demand for assistance, this year’s initiative will aid three local charities, Port Macquarie Salvation Army, Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Support Services and Port Macquarie-Hastings Homeless Collective.
The generous donations include children’s toys, games, back-to-school backpacks, stationery, toiletries, sporting equipment and gift cards, all aimed at spreading Christmas joy and easing the burden on struggling families.
Salvation Army Captain, Peter Gott, said their services will assist over 220 registered families, accounting for approximately 700 people this Christmas.
“We help by providing vouchers, food hampers and toy hampers to families and people doing it tough to make this Christmas as special as it can be,” Captain Gott shared.
“The gifts are going to help by giving us a chance to provide hope and joy to those who need it most during the festive season.”
Port Macquarie-Hastings Homeless Collective is also working to make the season brighter through its annual community Christmas party.
“Having special days like our Christmas party is amazing to ensure no one goes without. Everyone will leave with full bellies, a hamper and a gift to take home,” said Homeless Collective spokesperson Cherie Caltabiano.”
Deb Tougher from the Homeless Collective added, “The community can support the Homeless Collective by donating directly to us with gift cards which are used to stock the pantry, help with working bees and or provide a lunch. Contact us on Facebook, if you’d like to donate or volunteer.”
A spokesperson for Sovereign Hills expressed the importance of backing these vital services,
“These organisations are the real angels of our community, providing essential support that often goes unseen but touches so many lives. We hope our contributions help ease the pressures of the season and bring smiles to families in need.”
This year’s campaign highlights the importance of community spirit and giving back, ensuring that even the most vulnerable among us can find joy this Christmas.
