Mayor’s Christmas Appeal launches in support of Lake Macquarie

Published on 28 November 2024

Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz has called on the community to give generously to the annual Mayor’s Christmas Appeal, which aims to support hundreds of families through local charity, Samaritans.

Mayor Adam, accompanied by his family, officially launched the appeal on Thursday in partnership with Samaritans, the welfare arm of the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle.

“Christmas can be a fun and special time of year, but for some in our community it can be a real struggle. With the high cost of living, this year has been incredibly challenging for many,” he said.

“While I understand that household budgets are tight, even a small gift could make a real difference to a family or a child this Christmas.

“Donated toys, gifts, and non-perishable items will help the Samaritans provide for families struggling to make ends meet at Christmas.”

Mayor Adam praised the community spirit shown by Lake Macquarie residents throughout 2024 and expressed his hope that this generosity would continue with the Christmas Appeal.

The appeal is open until Friday 13 December with drop-off sites available at all Lake Mac Libraries branches.

Suggested donations include toiletries packs, jewellery, hand cream, chocolate, socks, aftershave and deodorant.

For children, recommended gifts include beach towels, sun hats, sunscreens, Barbie dolls, sports gear, monster trucks, cars and board games.

“Donations to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal will ensure that local families in need have gifts to open on Christmas Day,” Mayor Adam said.

Samaritans provides community assistance through more than 100 programs across the Hunter Region and NSW, including disability care, youth and family support and mental health services.