There is perhaps no greater time of year where the Port community’s generosity shines the brightest than Christmas, particularly when it comes to helping bring cheer to families who would otherwise go without.
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This was highlighted by Port Stephens Salvation Army Envoys Howard and Sandra Koutnik at the launch of the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal in Salamander Bay on Thursday with the pair saying the community plays a major role in helping their neighbours doing it tough at this time of year.
“We couldn’t do the work we do without the community’s donations,” Mr Koutnik said.
“The donations we receive from the community and through appeals like the Kmart wishing tree help us assist families in need.
“We are able to give gifts to children who don’t usually get them.”
During December, the Salvation Army assists about three times more people compared to any other month due to increased financial pressure at Christmas with extra bills, upcoming back-to-school costs, special meals and holiday activities for the children added on to everyday living expenses.
On the Tomaree Peninsula alone, last Christmas the Salvos helped more than 150 families, which represents about 500 individuals, to put food on their tables and provide toys for children.
Toys donated to the Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal are collected by the Salvation Army and distributed to families in the area that are in need.
The Salamander Bay store took part in a nation-wide launch of the Christmas appeal on November 15.
The Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal will run until Christmas Eve – December 24.
There are a number of ways members of the community can contribute to the appeal:
- By placing a gift under the wishing tree at any Kmart store (gifts do not need to be purchased from Kmart nor do they need to be wrapped)
- Adding a little extra to your transaction by clicking the WishingTree logo on the Kmart self-serve checkouts
- Taking a bauble tag off the Wishing Tree and scan the barcode at any register to contribute
- Dropping your spare change in a coin collection box at any register or;
- Donating online at: www.my.salvationarmy.org.au/donation/wishingtree
Mrs Koutnik said in the past, teenagers have been the hardest to cater for when it came to a Christmas gift.
“It’s usually the age group where we’re lacking,” she said.
Thursday’s launch was a happy occasion with the SeaSide Singers performing carols outside Kmart, Santa handing out gifts to children, face-painting and a cake cutting ceremony.
Salamander Bay Kmart store manager Donna Cornnell spoke about the importance of the wishing tree appeal which Port Stephens Deputy Mayor, councillor Sarah Smith, echoed in a short speech to the gathered crowd.
“For me, giving is about making others happy – whether it’s a loved one, or someone you’ve never met, it’s a great feeling to know that you’ve been able to make someone’s day,” Cr Smith said.
“Sadly, not every child will receive a gift this Christmas. That’s why this gift appeal is a small but important way that we can all make Christmas an easier and happier time for everyone.
“Port Stephens is an incredibly generous community, so I know that this year’s appeal will be as successful as ever.”
The Salvos have kicked off their appointment-based assistance service for 2018.
Appointments are done at the Salvation Army Family Store on Monday and Wednesday between 1pm and 3pm.
Any individual or family in need of assistance this Christmas can call the Salvos on (02) 4982 0192 to make an appointment.
Aiming to reach as many families as possible this year, the Bay Salvos have asked churches and schools to refer those in need of a helping hand to them.