Leading Tasmanian not-for-profit health and wellness organisation St Lukes is once again partnering with Launceston City Mission to ensure families across Northern Tasmania can experience the joy of the festive season.
Members of the community are encouraged to leave non-perishable food items, treats, new gifts for children under 16 (unwrapped), and self-care items under the Christmas tree at the St Lukes Launceston wellness hub.
St Lukes Community Engagement Officer Shoshana Wall said every child deserved to wake up on Christmas morning with a gift of their own.
“We know many families are doing it tough, which is why we’re encouraging Tasmanians to rally together and give what they can,” she said.
“Our wellness hub is designed to bring people together. We’re delighted to provide a central, welcoming space for donations as part of our vision to make Tasmania the healthiest island on the planet.
“Giving not only supports those in need, it strengthens social connection and wellbeing.”
City Mission CEO Jo Fearman said the festive season highlights the harsh reality facing many families who are already living week-to-week.
“For too many parents, Christmas is not a time of excitement – it’s a time of anxiety. They are forced into impossible decisions between buying groceries, paying rent or keeping the power connected, and in that reality, a Christmas gift for their child becomes a luxury they simply cannot afford,” Dr Fearman said.
“No family should have to choose between meeting basic needs and giving their child a sense of joy and normality at Christmas – yet this heartbreaking reality is becoming increasingly common, with more than 14 per cent of Tasmanians now living in poverty.
“We are incredibly grateful to St Lukes for standing alongside us and helping to ease that burden. Their generosity and leadership ensure children don’t miss out simply because their family is doing it tough and that sends a powerful message of dignity, care and hope.”
Ms Wall said St Lukes was delighted to support Launceston City Mission’s donation drive with a gift of its own – a $5,000 donation.
St Lukes will be taking donations at its Launceston wellness hub at 93 Cimitiere Street until December 11. Items must be unwrapped.
A schedule of free Christmas-themed workshops is available at stlukes.com.au/events.