MALLEE Family Care is anticipating this year's annual Christmas Appeal to be the most significant to date.
In 2022, the appeal provided more than 500 toys to children across the Mallee -- one of the biggest community responses seen by the organisation -- but believes the demand could further increase this year in response to growing poverty and cost of living increases affecting more children in care across the Mallee.
Mallee Family Care CEO Teresa Jayet said the organisation has hosted the Christmas Appeal for more than 20 years to ensure that every child they support experiences the joy of receiving a gift on Christmas morning.
"As the number of children in our care continues to grow, our commitment to ensure they have a brighter Christmas is stronger than ever," Ms Jayet said.
“We witness the growing effects of poverty and family violence each day, and these children need our support to experience some hope and joy on Christmas morning,” she said.
Ms Jayet the overwhelming generosity displayed by local businesses in response to the Christmas Appeal had been deeply moving.
She said business supporters for 2023 so far are Collie & Tierney First National Real Estate Mildura, Monash University – Rural Health Mildura, SuniTAFE, United Firefighters Union (UFU) members at Mildura Fire Station and Lime Therapy.
Carly Fleri, from Collie & Tierney First National Real Estate Mildura said the agency had been donating to Mallee Family Care's Christmas Appeal for almost 20 years.
"We love supporting our local community each year, and making a small difference in a young child's life at such a special time of the year is very fulfilling,” she said.
Louise Hodgetts, from Monash University – Rural Health Mildura said: "Rather than buy presents for each other every year, we choose to participate in the Christmas Appeal so we can give back to children in need."
"It brings the office together as we chat about the gifts we’re picking out for the kids and gives us a sense of community. It’s a simple way to get into the Christmas spirit,” she said.
Dani Coluccio, from SuniTAFE, said the organisation was proud to be a long-time supporter of the Mallee Family Care Christmas Appeal.
"We feel a responsibility to support our community and our staff are always enthusiastic to support the appeal,” she said.
United Firefighters Union representative Luke Alexander said the appeal was a small way to show young people in the community that they are cared for, belong and are valued.
"Giving a gift to a child who may not have received one otherwise, brings so much joy and happiness to their Christmas," he said.
"We couldn't be happier that Mallee Family Care invites us to be involved each year."
Ms Jayet said the organisation was extremely grateful for the support of local businesses and the wider community in coming together for such an important cause.
"As we continue to work together to support children in need, we're reminded that our collective efforts can truly make a difference in our community," she said.
Mallee Family Care's 2023 Christmas Appeal seeks to make a difference in the lives of even more children who are experiencing hardship.
Ms Jayet said she encouraged individuals, businesses and the wider community to spread the joy of the holiday season by participating in this year's appeal.
For more information about the Christmas Appeal contact Mallee Family Care on 1300 417 618 or email [email protected].
Mallee Family Care is the largest community service provider for child and family services dedicated to supporting communities in north-west Victoria and far-west New South Wales.
