The Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal is spreading festive joy once again.
The annual appeal, in partnership with the Salvation Army, is in its 37th year, helping to give those less fortunate a gift under their own Christmas trees.
Salvos Shepparton events co-ordinator Michelle Foley said there was more need for donations this year as many community members were struggling with the cost of living.
“Christmas is our busiest time of the year,” she said.
“Almost all Australians are worried about the cost of living.”
Up until Christmas Eve, you can head into Kmart Shepparton and leave a gift under the tree.
The gift doesn’t need to be purchased at Kmart, all you need to do is place a Wishing Tree sticker on your gift in store and place it under the tree. From there, the Salvos will collect the gifts and deliver them to those in need.
Gifts don’t need to be wrapped, and the appeal is unable to accept used or second-hand gifts.
“It’s just unbelievable, the pressure it takes off (parents) and to know they have something for the child,” Ms Foley said.
“It takes a lot of the stress away for parents who may not be able to afford gifts.”
Gifts might be books, gift cards, sporting equipment, back-to-school supplies, arts and crafts, headphones, educational toys, toiletries, musical instruments and more.
You can also make a cash donation in any Kmart store.
Anyone who needs assistance with gift-giving this Christmas can go to the Salvos at 99 Nixon St, Shepparton.