Gunnedah Shire Council is calling on the local community to get involved in the Christmas Tree Toy and Food Appeal and the Library ‘Food for Fines’ initiative this year.

Council’s Community Christmas Tree Toy and Food Appeal focuses on the collection of food and toys for distribution by the Salvation Army to local individuals and families who are facing tough times over the Christmas period.

The Library ‘Food for Fines” initiative invites Library members who may have incurred a Library fine to instead donate a non-perishable food item to the value of the fine.

“I am proud that Council is behind this great initiative which is now in its third year. Last year, residents throughout the Gunnedah Shire donated almost 200 items, proving once again what an extremely compassionate and generous community we have. The appeal provides a great way for all of us to reach out and help others, at what is such a special time of year,” Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said.

“The appeal will complement the wonderful work of the Salvation Army and other local emergency relief and support services during what are normally their busiest time of the year. I encourage everyone to get involved. “Last year, the Salvation Army helped over 300,000 Australians in need at Christmas. In 2016, Salvation Army figures revealed that sadly, 55 per cent of disadvantaged people were not able to give gifts to their family and friends at Christmas. Let’s band together and support those in need this Christmas,” Cr Chaffey concluded.

Residents can give to a child and family in need this Christmas, by placing an unwrapped toy or non-perishable food item under one of the Christmas trees located at Gunnedah Shire Council’s Administration Building (63 Elgin Street, Gunnedah) or Gunnedah Shire Library (291 Conadilly Street, Gunnedah).

For health and hygiene reasons, pre-loved toys cannot be accepted and only in-date canned and/or non-perishable food items are encouraged for donation.

The final collection date at both locations will be Tuesday, 12 December 2017. For more information contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s Community and Social Planner Debra Hilton on (02) 6740 2100.

Photo Caption: Dianne Schutz (Salvation Army) and Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey.

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100