Donations needed for Murraylands Christmas Appeal

Local families doing it tough need more of your support than ever this year, Murray Bridge charities say.

Donations needed for Murraylands Christmas Appeal

The need for generosity will be greater than ever this Christmas, three local charities say.

Launching the 2020 Murraylands Christmas Appeal on Thursday, the Salvation Army’s Linda Dorward – along with AC Care’s Thanuja Hiripitiyage and St Vincent de Paul’s Marian Allam – said plenty of local people were doing it tough.

“Some that have had extra payments, most of them have managed quite well, but those on the non-receiving side – aged pensions, disability support pensions, that sort of thing – they’ve struggled,” she said.

COVID-19 meant the charities would have to organise themselves a little differently this year, she said.

But she still hoped they would be able to spread lots of Christmas cheer.

Last year’s appeal provided food to 260 vulnerable families in Murray Bridge and surrounds, and toys to almost 400 children who might otherwise have gone without.

Money, non-perishable food and unwrapped toys suitable for children aged 14 and under can be donated to any of the three charities on or before December 11.

Murray Bridge council chief executive officer Michael Sedgman said Christmas could be a stressful time for families in need even in an ordinary year.

This year, support was needed more than ever.

“AC Care, the Salvation Army and Vinnies Murray Bridge would like to extend their appreciation in advance for all the donations received,” he said.

  • Donate: Take cash or goods to AC Care at 29 Bridge Street, St Vincent de Paul at 11 Second Street or the Salvation Army at 3 Fourth Street, Murray Bridge; download a donation form from www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au/christmasappeal; or pick one up the Murray Bridge council office on Seventh Street.
  • Register to receive food or toys: Bring your Centelink or health care card to the Salvation Army, Fourth Street, Murray Bridge on November 17, 19 or 24. Registrants will have their needs assessed, and distribution will depend on available resources.

Photo of Michael Sedgman, Marian Allam, Thanuja Hiripitiyage and Linda Dorward: Peri Strathearn.