Christmas is a time of giving, and who better to give to than those struggling to make ends meet in our community. The generosity of individuals, groups, businesses and organisations is truly amazing at this time of year and people often ask us how they can best help to make Christmas special for those in need.
This year we’ve had an unprecedented number of families asking for assistance through our Christmas Assistance Program – 678 families to be exact. This is a massive increase of 51% from last year and includes 1,148 children that we will supply with Christmas gifts. We are desperately seeking donations to help us meet this huge demand. You can make Christmas brighter to families in need by donating to Hobart City Mission in one of two ways:
- Donate a toy or gift
We provide gifts to children who would otherwise go without over Christmas. Gifts should have a broad appeal for children aged 0 – 15 and be left unwrapped so parents can choose a gift that is suitable for their child.
12 – 15 years old is our largest age category this year, and often the group that we receive the least gifts for. Great gift ideas for this age category include vouchers for experiences such as movies, mini-golf or bowling, sports or arts & craft equipment, clothing, backpacks, hair accessories & make-up, or vouchers for stores such as K-mart, JB HiFi, EB Games or H&M.
Drop your donations to Hobart City Mission at 50 Barrack St, or at one of Commonwealth Bank’s Southern Tasmanian branches (includes Collins St Hobart, Elizabeth St Hobart, North Hobart, Sandy Bay, Moonah, Glenorchy, Howrah, Rosny, Kingston, Huonville & New Norfolk).
- Purchase an online gift through our Virtual Toy Drive
Don’t have time to donate a physical present? You can purchase a virtual toy online and we’ll purchase a toy on your behalf. This is also extremely helpful as it provides us with the opportunity to fill any gaps left in gift donations. Click here to gift a present to a child who would otherwise go without.
- Donate money to our Christmas Appeal
As part of the Christmas Assistance Program we provide families with food vouchers to help make ends meet at this often stressful and costly time of year. Monetary donations also help us to fill any gaps we have in Christmas gifts for children. You can provide food to families in need by donating to our Christmas Appeal. Donations can be made online here, in-person at 50 Barrack St, Hobart or over the phone on 6215 4200.
Please help make Christmas brighter for a child in need. Donate today and spread the Christmas spirit.
We thank you for your support.