THIS coming Christmas is a time for joy and being together with loved ones, but for many local families this year may bring added challenges.
The cost-of-living pressures are being felt in households across the Far West and Sunraysia, turning what should be a season of joy into one of stress.
It is times like this that highlight the importance of initiatives like Kmart’s Wishing Tree to so many families across the region.
It was a great privilege to join the launch of the 38th appeal at Parliament House on Monday and place the first gifts under the big tree.
We know Christmas will be tough for even more families this year, with The Salvation Army’s 2025 Red Shield Report revealing 70 per cent of respondents felt the cost of living was their biggest challenge over the last 12 months, and 64 per cent believe their financial situation had worsened compared to a year ago.
The more we can help through this appeal, the easier it becomes for families, who even with support, will still find things tough.
No one should miss out on the joy of unwrapping a gift from under the Christmas tree, so if you are able to donate to this appeal, gifts can be dropped off at the Kmart store in Mildura (or the Salvos) from Monday. Monetary donations can also be made in-store and online.
If you are finding things a little harder this Christmas, whether it is putting food on the table or ensuring the kids have something to unwrap from underneath the Christmas tree, you are not alone. The Salvation Army is here to make things a little easier.
I encourage you to visit or call the Salvos in Mildura or visit their website if you need assistance.
To Kmart and the Salvos, thank you for the amazing job you do – not just at Christmas, but every day of the year.
