Kim Landouw from the Big Yellow Umbrella charity says the state of the national economy is impacting families like never before.
“We are seeing a greater demand for our Hamper House Crisis Support Program, mental health supports, and youth outreach programs,’’ Ms Landouw said.
“The cost of living is far beyond the reach of many local Macarthur families, and the financial stress is being felt by many.’’
As we head toward Christmas and the festive season, Big Yellow Umbrella and Wests Group Macarthur have again joined forces to help some of those people doing it tough.
Today, November 3, they have launched the 2025 Giving Tree Appeal, which will run until December 7 and collect gifts from the local residents.
“A small gesture from a complete stranger could be the lift someone needs to let them know they are not alone,’’ Ms Landouw said.
“If you can give during this hard time, please know your kind donation will go toward putting a smile on the face of a local family this Christmas.”
Donations of new, unwrapped Christmas gifts for children of all ages can be placed underneath the Giving Trees at Wests League Club Leumeah, Country Club Gledswood Hills, as well as Narellan Town Centre.
Gifts for teenagers and adults, including mums and dads, are also welcome as are items that can help create a lovely Christmas Day experience, such as tableware and decorations.
A suggested gift limit of $20 applies, which also applies to cash donations being accepted at reception of the venues listed above. The money donated will be sued to buy gifts to add to the Giving Tree.
Following the gift collection period, community volunteers are invited to help out at the Giving Tree gift wrapping day, which will take place at The Sherwood on Tuesday, December 9.
Donated gifts will be labelled, wrapped, and presented to Big Yellow Umbrella for distribution in time for Christmas Day.
“With so many families still doing it tough, we’re proud to bring back this appeal in 2025 to help ensure children and families across Macarthur can share in the excitement and joy of Christmas,” said Wests Group chairman Alan Buxton.
“We are also really proud of the volunteer gift wrapping day where all the gifts are wrapped, as a way for us all to connect and lend a hand toward the cause this Christmas”.