For many, the festive season is a time of blessings, gifts and special meals with loved ones.
However, this time of year also sees an increase in demand for our services as emotional and financial pressures become more intense.
Proud local charity Samaritans has launched its annual Christmas Appeal to bring hope and joy to people in need.
“Samaritans exists to walk alongside those in our community who are doing it tough. We have been providing life-changing support for more than 40 years,” Samaritans President Bishop Peter Stuart said.
“Donations to our Samaritans Christmas Appeal help ensure our services reach those who need it most.”
Through more than 100 services, Samaritans provides support to thousands of people each year.
Donations to the Christmas Appeal will enable Samaritans to make a positive impact on the lives of our people during Christmas, and support programs year-round.
Samaritans Child and Parenting Support Team Leader Louise Cooper said cost of living pressures and financial hardship were being felt throughout the community.
“Samaritans has always had such a reputation for helping and supporting people,” she said.
“We help people, we don’t turn them away. We offer something they can’t get anywhere else, or they get turned away from because the cost is too much.”
Samaritans Giving Trees have also popped up throughout the community, including Lake Macquarie library branches, City of Newcastle, Event Cinemas (Kotara, Glendale and Tuggerah), and Glendale City Centre.
Gifts will go directly to those attending Samaritans annual Christmas Lunch in the Park, and to children being supported through Samaritans services.
If you are able, please consider sharing your generosity with Samaritans this Christmas.