Wollongong City Council is asking locals to play ‘santa’s helper’ this year and make Christmas a little brighter for families in need.

The annual City of Wollongong’s Giving Tree was officially launched in the foyer of Council’s Administration Building today, and Council is calling on residents to drop off unwrapped Christmas gifts for children aged 0-16 years.

The donated presents will be collected by St Vincent de Paul Society and Anglicare, and given to disadvantaged children who wouldn’t otherwise receive a gift on Christmas morning. 

General Manager, David Farmer, said the Giving Tree is an important part of Council’s role in supporting the whole community.

“It’s been a tough couple years financially for a lot of local families and sadly many people in our community will be going without this Christmas,” Mr Farmer.

“The Giving Tree is one way Council can join residents to give a helping hand to local families in need, and ensure all children in the community can share in the festive spirit.”

“If you can’t make it to Council’s Administration Building during opening hours to drop off your unwrapped gift, you can visit any Branch of the Wollongong City Library, Wests Illawarra, Novotel Northbeach, Customer Service desks at both Figtree and Westfield Warrawong and Wollongong Central Customer Service Centre (located on level 1, opposite Priceline).”

“You have until 16 December to get your donations under the Giving Tree and help make Christmas a special day for all children in Wollongong,” concluded Mr Farmer.

For more information visit Council’s website at www.wollongong.nsw.gov.au or phone 4227 7104.