The number of people and businesses that support the Power FM / 2NM Food and Toy Appeal is almost as many as those who receive support from it, and with over 400 families on the list this year, this is essential for its success.
A family is anything from a single person to any combination and number of adults and kids, no one misses out as far as organiser De-anne Douglas is concerned.
The Muswellbrook Indoor Sports Centre became the Upper Hunter’s own Santa’s Workshop, with elves from businesses large and small and dedicated community members spending some of the hottest days of the week sorting, wrapping and packing to get everything done by Thursday.
They were checking lists and making sure everyone in the family was getting a present, as well as packing compassion hampers and gifts for nursing home residents.
By the time this edition hits the shelves, there will be almost no trace left of what has happened there, just like when Santa shoots back up the chimney leaving only joy in his wake.
Focus will now shift to preparing for next Wednesday’s community Christmas dinner, with over 100 people already indicating they will be there.
“I want the community to understand and know that the Christmas lunch can actually be for people who are on their own, it doesn’t have to be a financial need,” De-anne said.
“Sometimes we all just need to be with other people on Christmas Day, because it can be one of the loneliest days of the year for people.”
There is no need to RSVP for the Christmas lunch, just call in to the Senior Citizens Centre on Market Lane between 12noon and 2pm for a free meal and company on Christmas Day.
