By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
STAFF from a local community organisation are calling on Narre Warren residents to give back this Christmas.
Connections UnitingCare, based in Webb Street, is hoping the Casey community will get behind its annual Christmas Food and Gift Appeal which will run until Christmas Eve.
Connections chief executive officer Angela Forbes said the appeal, now in its 15th year, is dependent on people donating non-perishable food and gifts which are then provided to less privileged families facing an uncertain Christmas.
“For many of us, Christmas is a time of happiness where we create precious memories with our family and friends and share in the joy of giving,” she said
“Unfortunately, this is not the case for everyone.
“Connections supports over 2000 people every week and we know that for many of our clients, Christmas is an extremely difficult time of year.
“Our appeal is the most effective way the community can help disadvantaged families, individuals and young people.
“Donations are provided directly to those most in need and ensure everyone, particularly children, have a smile on their face on Christmas morning.”
In 2014, the appeal provided more than 4500 gifts and 500 food hampers to families doing it tough.
Connections Christmas Food and Gift Appeal works in conjunction with the UnitingCare and Target Christmas Appeal, which has now launched in all Target stores across Australia and runs until Christmas Eve.
Shoppers are encouraged to drop off unwrapped gifts at the layby counter in any Target store or purchase a $1 bauble gift tag at the checkout.
Donations of non-perishable food and gifts can be dropped at Target Fountain Gate or at a number of locations across Melbourne’s south-east.
For more information about Connections’ Christmas Food and Gift Appeal, visit connections.org.au.
