By Mitchell Clarke
With the festive season fast approaching, the team at Windermere is on the hunt for donations to bring some Christmas cheer to people in need.
For over 10 years, the Merry Mission Appeal has been providing gifts and helping hampers to local families doing it tough.
But in these trying times, the organisation has found that families are increasingly turning to them for assistance to find safety from escalating family violence and trauma situations.
With hundreds of local families out of work and struggling to make ends meet, Windermere CEO Dr Lynette Buoy said the need in the community would be greater than ever before.
“This year, more than ever, more families have faced more challenges, they are in desperate need and experiencing crisis like never before,” Dr Buoy said.
She added the 2020 appeal had been launched at the end of a year that many would rather forget.
“Even without the aftermath of a pandemic, many people in our community find Christmas to be a particularly tough and lonely time of year,” she said.
But it’s hoped the community will get behind the Merry Mission Appeal and spread some festive joy by donating to the organisation.
“These are undoubtedly tough times, but together we can keep the magic of Christmas alive and make this festive season that little bit brighter for families in our community who are doing it particularly tough,” Dr Buoy added.
“We are so grateful to all our supports, and especially thankful to the Toy Workshop and Marco’s IGA for partnering with us to deliver the appeal in a Covid safe manner.”
With the pandemic posing its own challenges, this year’s drive has been digitalised in line with the need for contactless food and gift deliveries.
To donate to Windermere’s 2020 Merry Mission appeal, call 1300 946 337 or visit windermere.org.au/merry-mission-2020.
