Christmas is a time for giving and for a Year 4 St Michael’s Primary School student, there is no better gift than putting a smile on the faces of those children who are less fortunate.
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Lily Signal, aged nine, from Nelson Bay, raised an incredible $300 from can and bottle deposit returns during the past 18 months and donated every cent to purchase gifts for those in need.
“I wanted other children to be happy at Christmas and for them to get a surprise on Christmas morning,” Lily said.
“I am very excited Christmas is coming and I want other children to be excited as well.”
School principal Helen Bourne said the entire school was very proud of Lily and her thoughts for others at this beautiful time of the year.
“With the money Lily raised she went with her parents and bought 42 presents for children that are not as fortunate as herself,” she said.
“Lily had seen a YouTube video of a girl doing this in America and she thought it was a wonderful idea.
“It took her 18 months to collect the cans and bottles and then cash them in.”
The gifts were donated to the Mini Vinnies Children's Christmas Gift Tree Appeal, organised by the St Michael's Conference of St.Vincent de Paul.
President Ian Fox described the gesture as a great thing for a 10-year-old child to do ... “so selfless and caring for others”.
“So far we have 70 food hampers to be distributed to Port Stephens families and there are around 100 needy children who will receive a special present from Santa thanks to the efforts of Lily and other generous students.”