Christmas cheer appeal launches in Murray Bridge for 2024
Donate toys, food or cash and give local families in need something to be cheerful about this festive season.
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You can make Christmas brighter for Murraylands families in need, starting this week.
This year’s Murray Bridge Christmas Cheer Appeal launched on Monday, encouraging locals to donate food, toys or money which can be distributed to families who are doing it tough.
Items will be distributed by the local branches of the Salvation Army, AC Care and St Vincent de Paul.
Captain Adrian Hamond hoped the Salvation Army would be able to help 180 local families in 2024.
The day recipients picked up their gifts was one of the best days of the year, he said.
“People are so grateful when they come in, they’re in tears,” he said.
“It’s one of my favourite days, just with the amount of joy that is in the room.”
Mayor Wayne Thorley said Christmas was a stressful time for people who were in need.
“Your generosity and support will go a long way,” he said.
“In the past, this appeal has successfully reached hundreds of vulnerable families and provided toys for many children.
“Our community organisations could not have reached this many people without the valued assistance of our generous community members.”
Mr Pasin encouraged locals to give generously.
“Christmas is a time to show solidarity and compassion to those needing a little extra help in our community,” he said.
“Even the smallest of donations can contribute to making the Christmas season a joyous time for a family who might be going through a tough time.”
Donations of new toys suitable for children aged birth to 11, or non-perishable food, can be dropped off at:
- AC Care Murraylands, 29 Bridge Street
- Kmart wishing tree, Murray Bridge Green
- Rural City of Murray Bridge, 2 Seventh Street
- Salvation Army, 3 Fourth Street
- Tony Pasin MP, Murray Bridge Green
Cash donations can also be made to AC Care, the Salvos or Vinnies.
- Make a donation: Download a donation form at www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au and visit any of the organisations listed above before 2pm on November 29.
