THE Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre (TNC) is calling on the Port Stephens community to help bring a little magic to local children and young people in need.
The annual TNC Christmas Toy Drive is now underway, with donations of new, unwrapped toys and gifts for children aged zero to 18 years being collected until Friday, 5 December.
This year, the centre is especially seeking gifts for boys aged eight to 18 years, with items such as gift vouchers, sports balls, board games, headphones, Lego, model cars and beach accessories particularly appreciated.
TNC manager Clare Saunders said the Toy Drive continues to be one of the region’s most meaningful community traditions.
“Every toy donated represents care, connection and hope,” she said.
“Families are doing it tough this year, and these gifts let local children know that their community hasn’t forgotten them.”
Ms Saunders said one of the most touching aspects of the appeal is the quiet generosity shown by everyday locals.
“Every day, community members stop by and quietly place toys and gifts into our collection box.
“They don’t expect anything in return – just giving out of pure kindness.”
Support for the Toy Drive has already grown, with early contributions from the Rotary Club of Salamander Bay, Harvey Norman, Mad Monday Quilters and Sunrise Lifestyle Resort at Bobs Farm, helping to kickstart this year’s appeal and inspire more people to get involved.
A strong network of collection points is also helping the Toy Drive reach families across Port Stephens.
Donations can be made at Coles Salamander Bay, Raine & Horne Nelson Bay, Bare Beauty Co, Cotton On Salamander, Flight Centre Salamander Bay, Health in Abundance Medowie, Newcastle Dog Rescue, and Champagne Colors Hairdresser.
At Tomaree High School, students from the Big Picture Academy are proudly leading their school’s collection point, raising awareness and encouraging fellow students to contribute.
To further support local families, TNC’s Kindness Trolley will return outside Coles Salamander Bay on Friday, 28 November from 9am to 2pm.
Shoppers are invited to purchase one extra grocery item during their visit to help ensure families have what they need this Christmas.
Over the past year, TNC has seen a 45 percent increase in requests for emergency relief, highlighting the growing pressures on local households.
Thanks to the generosity of residents, volunteers and local businesses, the centre continues to respond to these needs – helping support as many local families as possible this Christmas.
“The support from our community never stops amazing us,” Clare said.
“Every act of kindness – big or small – helps brighten someone’s Christmas.”
Donations of new, unwrapped toys and gifts can be dropped at any collection point or directly to Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre, 7 Community Close, Salamander Bay, until 5 December.
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