The Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is back, calling on the Noosa community to help local families doing it tough this year enjoy a special day.
“Many households are feeling the pressure of rising living and housing costs, and for some, Christmas can be a stressful time rather than a joyful one,” Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie said.
“Your generosity will help ensure families in need can share a meal and experience the magic of Christmas.”
The Appeal seeks donations of:
Gift cards
Presents (labelled with the intended age and gender of the recipient)
Non-perishable food items
Local charities including Salvation Army Noosa, St Vincent de Paul Noosa, Santa’s Classy Helpers, Youturn and SunnyKids will distribute the donations to those in the community who need them.
Haig Deere, Youturn’s Program Manager, Community Services, said the festive season can be especially difficult for people and families facing financial and emotional distress.
“When there are several priorities and budgets are stretched, a simple Christmas dinner or a small gift can feel out of reach. Every donation helps us to ensure those struggling this Christmas get to experience moments of joy and connection,” he said.
Lorraine Kenway of Santa’s Classy Helpers, which will provide more than 630 families and 2000 children with Christmas essentials this year, said presents for teenagers, and underwear for all ages, were needed.
“Top of the list are gifts for teenage boys and girls – they’re too often forgotten,” she said.
Matt Gluyas from Salvation Army Noosa said the community’s generosity was a lifeline for many families.
“Christmas should be a time of hope, but for some it’s a time of worry. These donations allow us to provide practical support and remind families that their community cares,” Mr Gluyas said.
“Every gift, every voucher, every food item makes a difference.”
SunnyKids CEO Kathleen Hope said the Appeal helps create lasting memories for children in vulnerable situations.
“Christmas is about connection and joy, and for families doing it tough, that can feel out of reach. Your generosity helps us give kids experiences and moments they’ll treasure,” she said.
To make Christmas brighter, vouchers for local attractions and restaurants are also welcome, giving families experiences they’ll remember.
“I’m pleased to kick-start the appeal with $500 worth of gift cards, and I encourage everyone who can, to join me. Every contribution, big or small, makes a real difference,” Cr Wilkie said.
Donations can be dropped off by Monday, 22 December at:
Council’s Tewantin offices, 9 Pelican Street
Cooroy Library, Maple Street, Cooroy
Tewantin-Noosa RSL Club, Memorial Avenue, Tewantin
For details on how to donate and what items are most needed, visit noosa.qld.gov.au
“Together, we can make this Christmas one that families in our community will remember with warmth and gratitude,” Mayor Wilkie said.
