The Salvation Army and Newcastle Permanent Building Society have received a heart-warming response from the Central Coast community in their annual Christmas Toy Drive Appeal.
The 34-year-old tradition shared by the Salvos and Newcastle Permanent provides hope and support for families in need at Christmas, who otherwise may be struggling to put presents under the tree.
Newcastle Permanent Partnerships and Community Engagement Manager, Kirsten Lyndon, said the response on the Central Coast was a true display of the spirit of Christmas.
“Some 6,000 presents were donated across regional NSW, which will certainly lift spirits on Christmas morning for those who may be doing it tough this year,” she said.
“We are filled with pride seeing the gifts stack up underneath the Christmas trees in our head office and branches.
“The community has been extremely generous, and we are immensely grateful.
“Christmas is about kindness, hope and joy, so we are honoured to support the Salvos each year as they bring a smile and some extra cheer to children and families who are struggling.”
Salvation Army Area Officer, Hunter and Central Coast, Major Mark Everitt, said this year has been especially tough for families, making the impressive present haul all the more meaningful.
“The demand on the Salvos on the Central Coast is greater than ever before,” he said.
“With cost-of-living pressures such as increased electricity and food prices at an all-time high, we are seeing financial strain rapidly increasing.
“As a result, people who have never had to do so before are reaching out to the Salvos for help.”
Everitt thanked Newcastle Permanent for their long-standing partnership and for facilitating the community’s generous donations.
“Through our partnership with Newcastle Permanent, the Salvos will be able to provide literally thousands of gifts to families and individuals in need at Christmas on the Central Coast,” he said.
“The Salvos are forever thankful for the generosity of Newcastle Permanent customers and staff for helping make this Christmas special to so many locals who are finding it hard to find joy at this time of year.”
Source:
Media release, Dec 22
Salvation Army