The 31st annual Kmart Nowra Christmas Wishing Tree appeal for the Salvation Army was officially launched at Stockland Nowra on Thursday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Kmart appeal is Australia’s largest Christmas gift appeal, with Nowra store manager Chris Beard saying in its 31-year history, eight millions gifts have been collected nationwide.
“It is great to be able to run the Christmas appeal each year,” he said.
“The way local schools and community support the appeal is fantastic.”
Locally the Salvation Army will provide help to 1000 people this year through its Christmas appeal.
“We will support people both young and old, singles and families,” said Nowra Salvation Army Captain Matthew Sutcliffe.
“It’s all about bringing a little joy and help to people who may be experiencing hardship, especially at this time of the year.
“It’s not only presents for children we give away - we also provide food hampers. Something to make Christmas special.
“We have changed things up a bit this year on the wishing tree - as well a tags for gifts worth $5, $7 and $10 there are also tags for specific items like toiletry packs for an older person or a book or basketball.
“I again urge the local community to support the appeal. The support over many years has been superb and hopefully that can continue again this year to bring a little joy to those at Christmas.”
As well as gifts, shoppers can also contribute through cash contributions at Kmart stores, which will be accepted through until January 31 next year.
Locally Captain Sutcliffe hopes to collect between 3000 and 4000 gifts to be distributed.
“We like to present each family we help with three or four presents,” he said.
The appeal will run through until Christmas eve and gifts can be left at the wishing tree at Kmart Nowra.
During the launch members of the Salvation Army Band played Christmas tunes, while children from the Kids Korner Child Care Centre entertained crowds with a number of performances. A special Christmas wishing tree cake was also cut and handed out to the children and local shoppers.