Hundreds of local families are expected to benefit from Anglicare and St Saviours Cathedral annual Christmas Giving Tree appeal which begins this week. This marks the ninth year of the appeal, and Dean of St Saviour’s Cathedral, The Very Reverend Phillip Saunders, says that following such a challenging 12 months, the Giving Tree is a practical way for people to support local families in need during what can sometimes be a difficult time.
“The ministry of Christmas Giving Tree in the cathedral is probably more important than ever this year,” said Rev’d Saunders. “Please bring in your new, unwrapped presents, and Anglicare will distribute them to those in need in the Goulburn area.”
Residents are encouraged to donate unwrapped presents for children and young people of all ages at St Saviours Cathedral located at 170 Bourke St, Goulburn, on or prior to Tuesday 22 December or call 4823 4000. Gifts will then be distributed to families in need in the Goulburn area and handed out by Anglicare staff and volunteers.
Anglicare’s coordinator of Housing and Community Services, Jodie Watson, said that many people across Anglicare’s services were experiencing hardship.
“We assist families through many services in Goulburn and surrounding areas including Emergency Relief and Homelessness Support Services, and many people are desperate for assistance with presents and food during the Christmas and New Year period,” says Ms Watson.
“Through our Homelessness Support Service alone, we assisted 648 people in the past 12 months – the highest numbers we’ve seen. Job insecurity, domestic violence, financial problems and relationship breakdowns all contribute to household stress, especially at this time of year. The simple but generous act of donating a toy or a book can lift a huge burden from a family who are wondering how to keep food on the table, let alone buy presents for their children,” says Ms Watson. “It makes a significant difference and allows families to stay afloat financially and not fall into unnecessary debt and hardship.”
Anglicare would like to thank the local community for your support during 2020 and we wish you a happy Christmas and a healthy and safe 2021.
For more information, call Amy Lanham on 6278 8410 or 0437 321 451.
