The Waimate Christmas Child initiative is in its ninth year, and the aim is unwavering — to ensure no child misses out on waking up to presents on Christmas morning.
A Christmas tree and gifting area has been set up in the reception of the Waimate District Council in Queen St, where the public can leave gifts to be distributed by Community Link before Christmas.
Many family budgets are stretched during the current costof-living crisis. Everyone wants to see their child experience a joyful Christmas Day, but many families are living pay cheque to pay cheque and simply do not have any money left over to buy gifts.
Mayoress Lyn Stringer, who leads the initiative, said the aim was to put smiles on children’s faces who may otherwise have missed out.
‘‘The capacity for our community to give is phenomenal,’’ she said.
‘‘I want to give my heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated last year and hope the community will support the project again this year,’’ Ms Stringer said.
‘‘The gifts do not have to be big or expensive. Every little bit helps put a smile on a child’s face on Christmas morning. We’re asking for gifts suited to babies, toddlers and children up to the age of 15.
‘‘Anyone can fall on hard times, especially at the moment, and we want to ensure every child gets something on Christmas Day.’’
Community Link takes referrals from a wide range of social services and is the distributor of the gifts, which are given to families within the Waimate district.
Last year, about 100 children received gifts from Christmas Child.
Gifts need to be brand new, unwrapped, and can be dropped off at the Waimate District Council reception until 4pm on Friday, December 5. — Allied Media
