Media Release - Cessnock Samaritans Launches Christmas Appeal - Tuesday, 16 November 2021

Media Release - Cessnock Samaritans Launches Christmas Appeal - Tuesday, 16 November 2021 Main Image

By Joel Fitzgibbon

16 November 2021

The Hunter electorate is fortunate to have many quality organisations which support families through challenging times throughout the year and to make Christmas a little brighter when it comes around.

 

As the festive season nears, Samaritans in Cessnock has officially launched its Toy Appeal. This year, the Covid-19 pandemic has presented new and increased challenges for many families. As a result, the charity organisation is anticipating an increased demand for Christmas assistance and will rely even further on the generosity of the local community to provide gifts, particularly for children.

 

“The Samaritans Toy Appeal and the service this organisation provides to those in need in our community all year round is truly invaluable,” Federal Member for Hunter Joel Fitzgibbon said.

 

“I’m proud to get behind the charity and ask those who are able to, to give generously and help to spread the word.”

 

Samaritans in Cessnock is collecting toys for children up to 12 years of age with donations of gift cards to the value of $20.00 kindly accepted.

 

A wide range of gifts are required like toys, sports equipment, beach towels, bags and books for children aged 0 - 12. Samaritans asks that donated items do not require batteries for use.

 

Due to the pandemic, Samaritans are requesting that all toys be in a new box.

 

Donations of toys or gift cards can be made directly to the Samaritans Cessnock Office at 124 Vincent Street during opening hours.

 

“This year, times are more uncertain than usual. But the Cessnock community is always extremely supportive.” Senior Support Worker Denise Crossley said.

 

“All donations that are received go to local families in need and we hope that the community’s support continues this year.”

 

All toy and gift card donations are gratefully accepted prior to 10 December 2021.

 

“Covid-19 has meant that 2021 has been a tough year for many in the Hunter and the Samaritans’ Toy Appeal will certainly help in making Christmas a little more joyful for families in need” Mr Fitzgibbon said.

 

“Each year my team supports a local charity and this year we are proud to get behind the Samaritans Christmas Toy Appeal by making our own personal contribution.”

 

“I hope our community donates to Samaritans in the coming weeks as they spread the word about their Toy Appeal and I thank people in advance for making a difference this Christmas.”