Community
24 December, 2024
Hampers bring Christmas joy
MEMBERS of the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre have been busy, together with a group of hard-working volunteers, packing Christmas hampers in preparation for their distribution prior to Christmas Day.
Although a time of celebration and fun, Christmas and the new year can be a stressful time for families experiencing financial difficulties or similar.
The neighbourhood centre, which is part of the Port Douglas Community Service Network and includes the popular Nicnak Shed Op-shop, are thankful for the many generous donations every year, as the hampers wouldn’t be possible without them.
Many nonperishable goods and even monetary donations have been accepted over recent weeks, allowing each hamper to be filled with both fun and useful items
“Giving is not just about making donations – it’s about making a difference. As a community, we can make the season brighter for all,” said community recovery connect worker Tracy Gibson.
“Those packing the hampers believe they are more than just food or gifts. They feel they represent hope and remind recipients that brighter days are possible and that the community is here to help them achieve those brighter days,” she said.
Furthermore, the centre also believe that Christmas hampers are about more than just meeting needs, as they are also about creating moments of joy, fostering connection and ensuring that everyone feels the spirit of Christmas, no matter what their circumstances are.
During the Christmas and new year period, Nicnak Shed manger Jo Westgate asks that the public do not drop anything off until their return on Monday, January 6, as no-one will be present to deal with items left outside the shop.
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