PREMIUM
News

The gift of giving

Making a difference: FamilyCare’s Katie Huddleston is urging those who can to help families and children in need. Photo by Kelly Carmody

This year’s FamilyCare Christmas Gift Tree initiative allows people to help children and families in need.

The initiative that brings joy and spreads the true spirit of Christmas across the region starts on Friday, December 1.

Each business taking part in the initiative will display gift tags on a Christmas tree.

All gift tags provide information on the gender and age of a child that FamilyCare has identified as needing something special over Christmas.

Anyone wanting to get involved is encouraged to collect a gift tag from a participating business and find a suitable present to place back under the tree.

FamilyCare executive assistant to the director of service development Katie Huddleston said the organisation offered a range of services to families, children and young people in Shepparton that were essential at this time of year.

“The initiative makes a collective difference in the community and is a wonderful way to get involved and help provide families with a better and brighter Christmas,” she said.

“Any contribution, big or small, is deeply appreciated.”

Last year, the initiative saw more than 700 children receive a gift.

“Everyone is more than welcome to help spread the cheer a little further by donating gift cards, coffee or café vouchers, or grocery-only vouchers,” Mrs Huddleston said.

“Every little bit helps, and there is something special about the gift of giving at this time of year.

“It’s with heartfelt gratitude that we are so thankful for past contributions and the ongoing support from our wonderful community.”

All unwrapped age-appropriate gifts need to be returned to the businesses by Monday, December 18.

This will ensure FamilyCare has enough time to sort through the gifts and distribute them to families and children in need.

Christmas Gift Tree locations

The News

Connect GV

Shepparton Marketplace — Gift Box

ANZ Shepparton

Goulburn Valley Water

Greater Shepparton City Council

Welsford St Cafe

Stellar Coffee

The Brewer’s Table

Harvest Home

Oddfellows Cafe

GV Community Health

Partners in Training

Beveridge Centre

Notre Dame College

Toolamba Primary School

Milkbar