The local community has raised a record breaking $51,231.60 for the 2021 Mount Gambier Community Mayor’s Christmas Appeal, eclipsing the 2020 fundraising record of just over $40,000.

Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin is overwhelmed and grateful for the generosity shown by the community.

“We were hoping to surpass last year’s total to be able to provide some additional support to those in need, but to break last year’s record by more than $10,000 is simply amazing,” Mayor Martin said.

“All funds raised as part of the appeal are distributed to local support agencies including Uniting Care, ac.care, Lifeline SE, St Vincent de Paul and The Salvation Army to provide food hampers, vouchers and gifts through the Christmas Cheer program.

“The five support agencies used the funds they received as part of the program to support 761 adults, 415 children and 167 teenagers over the festive season.

“I appreciate that it has been a challenging year for many people as we navigate through the COVID pandemic, so to see so many people come forward to help others is truly uplifting and a wonderful reflection of the generosity of our community.

“I thank each and every individual, group and business who chose to support the appeal, this is an outstanding achievement and I am so proud of our community.”

The Mount Gambier Community Mayor’s Christmas Appeal is open all year round.

Donations can be made through the following channels:

•Credit card over the phone by calling council on (08) 8721 2555. Council staff can email a tax invoice.

•In person at the City of Mount Gambier customer service counter – Civic Centre, 10 Watson Terrace.

•Send 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.