CHRISTMAS was a little brighter for dozens of local families, thanks to the generosity of organisations, businesses and community members who donated to the Mallee Accommodation and Support Program during December.
Hundreds of gifts, non-perishable foods, care packages and more were donated to those in need this festive season.
MASP chief executive officer Vincent Wilson said the support and generosity of the community in the lead-up to Christmas made a difference in many ways.
"Christmas can be a difficult time for many families in our community, but so many organisations saw that and decided to do something practical to help," he said.
Mr Wilson said MASP received more than 260 gifts from the Ray White Little Ray of Giving campaign and over 100 gifts from the AntiSocial Collective annual toy drive.
In addition, MASP received contributions from Camp Australia at Sacred Heart Primary School who gave non-perishable food donations; Woolworths Langtree staff and customers who contributed gifts and non-perishable food; Sunraysia Institute of TAFE Diploma of Community Services Students, with personal care packages; Sunraysia Institute of TAFE VCAL students, who fundraised to purchase Christmas gifts; Mildura Gateway Tavern’s support with meals to Red Earth Heart Van; Mildura Base Hospital staff; Woolworths Mildura Central; and the Salvation Army.
MASP director of corporate services Charmaine Calis said it had been heart-warming to see the show of support from local businesses and many individuals this year, with people of all ages dropping into the MASP office to donate presents they had chosen for someone less fortunate.
"However big or small, the donations we received go a long way in bringing hope and joy to families during what may otherwise be a very difficult or lonely time,” Ms Calis said. “We sincerely thank the many local businesses and individuals in our community for their continued support and generosity."
