By Jamie Salter
Casey North Community Information and Support Services (CNCISS) has had an overwhelming response to its Christmas appeal which supports local families during the holiday period.
Donated toys and food have been collected by CNCISS since 1997 and about 350 hampers are made each year.
CNCISS Susan Magee said contributions from the community have been wonderful despite the coronavirus pandemic impacting every household.
“Given that schools have been in lockdown and a lot of households have been on a reduced income, it’s been pretty good,” Ms Magee said.
CNCISS team members work to unpack and organise the donations to be collected by local families.
“We have a list of families that are coming to collect toys who each family get a Christmas food hamper as well,” Ms Magee said.
“Normally the parents can come and pick the toys themselves but last year and this year we’ve pre-packed them.
“From December 13, any other family that wants a hamper can call and pick one up.”
Ms Magee said more toys were needed for older children aged 12 to 13.
“People love to donate toys but they get the popular items for little kids and the older kids often miss out,” she said.
A core team of Rotarians led by Berwick Rotary Club secretary Sam McCurdy worked to liaise with local schools and supermarkets for permission to place donation bins, delivering goods to CNCISS to be made into the Christmas hampers.
Berwick Rotary Club public image director Jane Moore said donation bins were overflowing with the warm generosity of local community members.
“We’re excited and the staff at CNCISS are elated as the hampers are packed by happy people making Christmas magical for those with less,” Ms Moore said.
“We are so thankful to all who will never meet or see the light in the eyes of the recipients of their donations.
“The response has been so joyful, especially in these times of crisis.
“When times are tough, the community steps up.”
