By Hollie Harris
QUEENSLANDERS are being encouraged to brighten the festive season for children living in out-of-home care by donating a present to the Kids in Care Christmas gift drive.
Cooroy RSL is one of the official gift collection points for the GIVIT Christmas Gift Drive this year.
The gift drive aims to see a present donated for every child and young person in care, from newborns to children up to aged 17.
Child Safety Minister Shannon Fentiman is asking Queenslanders to show their support for kids in care and purchase an extra gift when they are out Christmas shopping.
“We all know it takes a village to raise a child, and this is absolutely the case for children who are unable to live with their families,” she said.
“These gifts from the community are a way for everyone to support our kids in care, as well as their carers who do a wonderful job all year round.”
Ms Fentiman called on schools and the business community to get involved and throw their support behind the gift drive.
“It would be wonderful to see schools and businesses across Queensland get behind our kids in care by encouraging donations and collecting gifts,” she said.
“With more than 8000 children in care we need plenty of gifts that will go right around the state to reach children,” she said.
Gifts should be suited to a broad range of children and teenagers in care.
This Christmas you can help bring a smile to a child in care, all you need to do is give a gift via our website or donate funds towards purchasing them or head in to Cooroy RSL and leave your gift with them.
Suitable presents are items to the value of about $20, like toys, gift cards, sporting equipment, board games, clothes and books.
For more information, including donation points and gift ideas visit givit.org.au
