The Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Appeal has gained an extra shine with two bronze sponsors, The Optical Superstore Bundaberg and Dons Fort Packing, donating $1,000 each to the fundraising initiative.
Business support of the Appeal has been a major boost to this year’s fundraising campaign, which raises funds to provide food hampers for local residents in need of a helping hand to make their Christmas special.
First time Bronze sponsors Dons Fort Packing owners Lachlan and Annaleise Donovan said supporting families and the community through the Appeal was important to their family-based business.
“It's something that I've always wanted to do,” Annaleise said.
“Christmas to us is a time of celebration and love, but unfortunately some people don't have the finances or the family around them.
“It's a big family thing for us and I'd like someone else to feel that.
“We support charities all around Australia, but I like the ones that are at home because you know that they are staying at home, helping people in your area.”
Annaleise encouraged anyone considering donating to the Appeal to do what they coiuld.
“Every little bit, doesn't matter if it's a big donation or a small donation, every little bit helps somebody along the line and can just make them feel that they can celebrate like everyone else,” she said.
Returning bronze sponsors, The Optical Superstore Bundaberg owners Karen and Andy Christiansen said they embraced the idea of giving back to the community where they grew up.
“Since we began the practice 15 years ago the Bundaberg community has been extremely supportive of our business,” Karen said.
“The Christmas period is a perfect opportunity to say thank you in return.
“Many people we know and don't know are doing it very tough.
“We hope the funds raised go toward those that need it the most, in particular children and young families.
“Personally, it makes us feel good about it, knowing in some small way we are helping our community.”
Mayor Jack Dempsey said he encouraged other businesses to get involved, either as sponsors or by holding a fundraising event.
“We are so grateful for the businesses that have contributed to the Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Appeal, helping to brighten the Christmas of residents in need,” he said.
“Council, businesses, charities and the community coming together to support the appeal is a great way to reach as many people as possible.”
The hampers will be distributed to those in need throughout the region by Citicoast Pantry Bundaberg, the Salvation Army Bundaberg, St Vincent de Paul’s Childers, Gin Gin Neighbourhood Hub, and Childers Neighbourhood Centre.
Find out more about the Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Appeal, and how businesses and the community can get involved, on the project page.
