The local community raised a record amount of more than $40,000 for the 2020 Mount Gambier Community Mayor’s Christmas Appeal. Donations flooded in throughout November and December to support local agencies to provide food hampers, vouchers and gifts.
Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin praised the local community for providing generous support to the annual appeal despite the challenges many experienced throughout 2020.
“Each year I am overwhelmed by those who donate so generously to the appeal but given the circumstances this year, the total tally of $40,211.30 really has exceeded all expectations and I thank all community groups, individuals and businesses who have helped those in need in our community to experience some of the joys of Christmas,” Mayor Martin said.
“I was particularly impressed by 10-year-old Jacob Halleday who donated his savings of $209 to the appeal to help others during the festive period. “This kind of generosity is lovely to see at such a young age.”
Through the provision of hampers, vouchers and gifts local agencies Lifeline, Uniting Care, a.c care, Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul collectively supported about 700 adults and more than 620 children and teenagers using funds donated to the appeal.
“The appeal’s ability to assist those in need relies greatly on the support of the local agencies and I’m very thankful for the commitment of these organisations and their staff in ensuring that Christmas is a special celebration for as many people in our community as possible,” Mayor Martin said.
Mount Gambier Central provided an additional $2000 as a contribution from each Santa photo purchase, further to an initial donation of $800 raised through recycling cans and bottles in the centre. “Each year Jane and the team at Mount Gambier Central go to great lengths to support the appeal and we are incredibly grateful for not only the generous donations in 2020 but for the ongoing commitment over many years,” Mayor Martin said.
Donations to the appeal are accepted all year round by calling council on (08) 8721 2555 , in person at the City of Mount Gambier customer service counter – Civic Centre, 10 Watson Terrace or sending a cheque made out to ‘City of Mount Gambier’ PO Box 56 Mount Gambier SA 5290 with advice the cheque is a donation to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal.
