Bundaberg Regional Council has joined forces with local businesses, charities and the community to launch the 2024 Mayor’s Christmas Appeal.
Coordinated by Council, the 2024 Mayor’s Christmas Appeal has raised $11,252 so far, including funds that carried over from 2023.
Launching the appeal in Buss Park, Mayor Helen Blackburn said the annual funding drive was aimed at easing the financial strain for locals during the holiday season.
“This year we will be raising funds to give directly to charities so they can provide hampers, gifts or vouchers for local residents at Christmas time,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“Cost of living pressures continue to affect many people, and we know how a little extra help at Christmas can make all the difference.”
Mayor Blackburn said in addition to Council fundraising, businesses and community members could help make Christmas special for fellow locals by supporting the appeal.
“I encourage businesses and organisations in the region to come on board as sponsors of the appeal and show their support for people in the community who are doing it tough,” she said.
“There are lots of ways the community can be involved, including holding an event, buying a bauble or making a donation.
“The Mayor’s Beach Ball is Council’s major fundraiser in support of the appeal, and we will have raffles and auctions on the night to boost the amount raised.
“This event sold out very quickly and it is wonderful to see so much support for a good cause.”
Charities welcome support
Salvation Army Bundaberg representative Melissa Millard said the charity group loved partnering with Council for the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal.
“It is always better to work together for the good of the community,” Melissa said.
“It gets more people involved in helping others around us.”
Melissa said the organisation had experienced an increasing need for its services.
“The funds go towards our Christmas Hampers which go to community members and families that need a helping hand over Christmas,” she said.
“We have seen an increase not only for Christmas but for everyday needs throughout the year.”
Charities partnering with the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal include the Salvation Army, St Vincent de Paul Bundaberg, St Vincent de Paul Childers, Angels Community Group and Citicoast Pantry, in addition to the Council-run Childers and Gin Gin Neighbourhood Centres.
Sponsorship packages are available at bronze, silver, gold and platinum levels, which offer a range of incentives in return for supporting the appeal.
Community members and business can also donate at Family Hamper level, a contribution of $100 that assists one family in the region.
For more information about how to donate, see the project page here, and download the sponsorship proposal here.
