Thursday, November 28, 2024

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Spreading Christmas Joy Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

This Christmas, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, are ensuring that no child goes without a present this year.
The centre is encouraging individuals to donate to their toy drive, which in turn will go into their free Christmas gift shop, aimed to help families who are struggling this Christmas.
Parents will need to register their interest in attending, and once a slot is booked will be invited to come through the gift shop and get tokens for free gifts, which are new and unopened and can go straight under their Christmas tree for their little ones.
Executive officer, Rebecca Woods, stated that whilst in the past the shop was strictly for low-income familiies they have expanded their customer base:
“In the past, we've kept the toy shop strictly for low-income families, and they had to provide evidence that they were receiving government benefits.”
This year, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre recognizes that the need within the community is greater than ever, with many individuals facing challenges, even if they are not receiving Centrelink benefits.
Every child deserves the joy of opening a present on Christmas Day, and the Whitsunday community, in partnership with the Neighbourhood Centre, is working to ensure that no child is left without a gift this festive season.
Anyone interested in participating in the gift shop initiative is encouraged to register by December 10th, 2024. To sign up, simply visit the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre Facebook page and click the registration link.

Rebecca Woods, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

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