Thousands of men, women and families on the Central Coast will experience immense financial hardship and stress this Christmas.
CEO of Coast Shelter, Rachel Willis, launched the 2018 Coast Shelter Christmas Appeal on November 7 with a heavy heart.
“It is always upsetting to see people become homeless or flee domestic violence, but it is particularly difficult around the Christmas period. “Christmas should be a time for celebration and enjoyment, however it can cause immense pressure on individuals and families. “It is not unusual to see an increase in support required around Christmas, which is a result of a number of different factors such as added financial expenses and social expectations. “We rely heavily on the generosity and support of the Central Coast community to help spread festive cheer to those in need.
“Coast Shelter will accommodate approximately 200 people in our crisis accommodation programs on Christmas night, and also host a fantastic lunch in the Community Centre on Christmas Day,” Willis said. “Everyone is welcome at the Community Centre between 11am-2pm on Christmas Day. “We are fortunate to have such wonderful volunteers who help to ensure each one of our guests receives a beautiful hot meal, a hamper and a gift,” said Charles Boyton, Program Manager of the Community Centre. “It brings Coast Shelter such joy to have the support of the Central Coast community at Christmas. “Donations of gifts and Christmas hampers will go directly to families and individuals who are finding it difficult to afford even the basic essentials,” he added.
Details on how to donate to Coast Shelter’s Christmas Appeal and a range of suggested gift ideas can be found on Coast Shelter’s website, by following the Christmas Giving links. Coast Shelter is accepting donations of new items for men, women, teenagers and children. “Please leave gifts unwrapped and deliver by December 7, to allow time to distribute to accommodation programs in time for Christmas. “Gifts can be dropped at 346 Mann St, North Gosford, or gift givers can call Coast Shelter to arrange a pick up,” Willis said.
Source: Media release, Nov 7 Rachel Willis, Coast Shelter