Christmas Appeal

Published on 08 December 2021

Building on the success of last year's gift appeal, Beaufort Community House & Learning Centre are once again joining with the Bendigo Bank to launch the gift appeal for 2021, thus providing some Christmas excitement for those members of the community, who are doing it tough.

Manager of BCHLC, Pauline Ball, said 2021 has been even more difficult than last year with further Covid 19 restrictions and lock downs, leading to job losses and increased isolation for many community members.

“We‘ve noticed some people needing a bit of extra support, whether it’s the foodbank or just needing to connect with others,” Pauline said.

“As in 2020, we’ve also noticed an increase in people wanting to help where they can. Inquiries are being received as to if there is going to be another appeal. The Christmas gift appeal is a great way for all members of the community to support local people who might need a bit of help this Christmas.”

Families and individuals who might need a helping hand this Christmas have been identified by the Shire and a tree has been set up at Bendigo Bank where people can collect a gift tag stating an age and gender of the recipient. People can then buy a present, wrap it and place it under the tree with the gift tag attached.

Manager of Bendigo Bank’s Beaufort branch Vicki Hancock said her staff were thrilled to help out with the appeal.

“We had great fun decorating the tree, the staff are feeling quite festive already,” Vicki said.

“It’s important for us, as a local business, to support local initiatives when we can. Acting as a collection point for gifts is a tangible way to give back to our customers and the wider community of Beaufort.”

Presents must be dropped off by 17th December to the Bendigo Bank at 17 Lawrence Street, Beaufort, ready for distribution before Christmas.