More than 650 families and 1,500 children have received an early xmas present, thanks to Santa’s Classy Helpers.
Dozens of volunteers worked tirelessly this week to deliver food products and presents to those families in need.
Now in its 16th year, Santa’s Classy Helpers have raised more than $700,000 annually to assist families in Noosa, to Pomona and Coolum.
Dedicated volunteers, led by founder Lorraine Kenway, assisted families to distribute the goods after a 12 month fundraising marathon.
“We do functions every month, plus we have golf days and many many people, including many businesses across Noosa, donate food, books, goods and money across the year,” Lorraine said.
She said the cost of living crisis had impacted many families. “Many can’t survive,” she said.
One volunteer told Noosa Today it was an emotional experience.
“It’s such an emotional, overwhelming experience. We do this (volunteer) to provide for families that are less fortunate than us.”
The volunteer said one of the families included a single mother with two teenagers. The mother had been putting herself through university to become a nurse. “She told me she was one week from becoming a full-time nurse. Then I’ll be in a position to give back.”
“Another lady I met this morning was living in her car. Rent is so expensive and it’s so expensive to buy.”
Registered families received bulk goods including underwear for children, Milo, coffee, tins of baked beans and spaghetti, pasta and tuna. Businesses across Noosa helped to provide goods for the event.
There were also gifts for children for Christmas.
The event is held annually at The J in Noosa Junction.
