New look Mayor’s Christmas Appeal to support locals this festive season

Townsville City Council is asking local businesses to dig deep and donate to assist locals in need this Christmas.

After listening to local charities Mayor Jenny Hill said this year’s Mayor’s Christmas Appeal would focus on giving those in need the power to choose what they need most this Christmas.

“In previous years we have given out toys and food hampers with the help of charities across the city. After hearing how important it is for people to be able to decide what they would like for themselves, we’re taking a new approach,” Cr Hill said.

“The new Mayor’s Christmas Appeal system will include vouchers that recipients will be able to use at Christmastime. It means they can buy the food they like, or essential supplies like nappies and formula, or even toys for under the Christmas tree.

“By doing this we hope that each person who receives a voucher as part of this appeal will be able to make the most of the gift and have their essentials sorted come Christmas.”

Cr Hill said Council had kicked off the appeal and was calling on local businesses to help benefit recipients.

“This year we are asking North Queensland businesses to give back to their community by donating money towards these vouchers through the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal,” she said.

“By doing this you’ll be supporting the large number of charities across the city who are doing their part to make Christmas a little brighter for those who need it most.

“The Christmas vouchers will be distributed through local charities to residents doing it tough to use at select grocery stores.

“If you’d like to support the community by donating, go to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal website.”

To donate to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal, head to mayorschristmasappeal.com.au.