Christmas is a time of giving and celebration. We all like to surprise our loved ones with thoughtful gifts to show that we care. We also know that Christmas can be a time of financial strain for many families.
To alleviate some of this strain, each year The Salvation Army run a Christmas Toy appeal that assists thousands of parents in getting their children a gift at Christmas.
Heartbreakingly, The Salvation Army have reported a 50% shortfall in toys donated this year in comparison to previous years. This drive has been one of the most important and relied upon services to help families out.
The Salvos assist around 15,000 South Australians each Christmas distributing over 40,000 toys and gifts and serving more than 5,000 meals.
Mark Foyle of the Salvation Army says, “The Salvation Army Christmas toy appeal has been a reliable source of gifts and relief from the financial strain of having to make additional purchases at an already highly stressful time of year for so long, that to think we will face a significant shortfall is absolutely devastating.”
Recently released research figures indicate that 46% of people find Christmas one of the most stressful times of the year and that 65% feel some level of extra strain in their finances during the Christmas period.
While this research also shows that almost 8 million Australians (48%) have donated money to a charity and/or volunteered their time to help someone in need last Christmas, we can all still do that little bit more this year to help out The Salvation Army’s appeal.
To donate to the drive, one of the most convenient spots to leave a gift is under the Kmart Wishing Trees located at the front of every store in South Australia. The gift can be purchased from anywhere and be left under the tree. Gifts can also be donated to at The Salvation Army.
If you don’t have time to donate a gift this year, donating $29 to the Christmas Appeal will enable Salvos to provide food and presents of Australians in need.
To donate please visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS (13 72 58).
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